Mr. Willie Thomas Norman

Born May 5, 1955 (5-5-55) in Gainesville, Georgia, Willie Thomas Norman, would often proudly proclaim “I was born perfect, all 5’s!” He was the fourth of nine children born to Hattie Mae and Willie Cephus Norman. His parents, brothers Arthur Lee and Ralph Curtis, and sister Lucille Stephens all preceded him in death. Known by his family as “Tee,” he was an accomplished welder, and enjoyed his time working as a landscaper in the city of Detroit. Willie was always proud of his ability to manage money, but was also kind and generous with his family members when they were in need. He loved to tell the story of how, when his family was facing hard times, he was able to provide the money to pay for graduation for his big brother, Joe. He was an avid sports fan, and his home teams, the Atlanta Falcons, and Atlanta Braves were always close to his heart. However, as a transplanted Detroiter, his favorite team was the Detroit Red Wings, and when they were playing, he never wanted to miss seeing a game and cheering them on! Willie faced many challenges in life, but joined the church as an adult at the Salvation Army after moving to Detroit, Michigan in 1992. He took great pride in getting his driver’s license and first car in 2003. He lost his love, Kathryn Talley, in 2013, and is eternally grateful to his dear friend Willa McFarland, whom he called “Ma Tee,” who always looked out for him. He once shared what he wanted said in his obituary. He said, “Tell them that I loved everybody, and that I was looking forever to have a conversation with God.” He asked that no tears be shed for him because he would be in a better place. He also said to tell his son, Demond, that he was sorry they never had the relationship they wished for. Family often joked that Willie T. had nine lives, because of all the incredible predicaments he was able to survive. But on May 6, he encountered a challenge he was not meant to overcome. After many heroic efforts to extend his life, he died peacefully on May 30, 2013. We know now that he is in heaven, having that conversation with God that he never believed he could have here on earth.

Mr. Willie Thomas Norman

May 5, 1955 - May 30, 2013