On September 7, 1964, in Muskogee Oklahoma, a baby boy was born to James Willie and Maxine Stanford-Norwood. He was the youngest and last of nine children. They named him John Jerry Norwood, and throughout his life he was affectionately known as “Jerry” by family and friends.

Jerry attended Tony Goetz Elementary School and Alice Robertson Middle School in Muskogee, Oklahoma. He later attended Muskogee High School, where he graduated with the Class of 1982.

At an early age, Jerry professed his faith in Jesus Christ. He was baptized and united with Macedonia Baptist Church in Reeves Addition, where he began his spiritual journey and developed the faith that would remain with him throughout his life. 

Childhood

As a young boy, Jerry was always on the move. Mischievous and full of energy, he kept family and friends on their toes with his playful spirit and sense of adventure. His infectious smile and humorous personality made him a joy to be around, creating memories that his loved ones continue to cherish. 

Employment

Throughout life Jerry held various positions in Oklahoma, Minnesota, and Nebraska, the service and laborer industries, working for the City of Muskogee, the Country Club, Factory and Janitorial work, and as a cook. 

Relationships and Marriages

After chasing Linda Cotton around Muskogee for years, Jerry finally convinced her to marry him in the 1980s. Family lore says he even got a good whooping on the morning of the wedding—perhaps a final reminder of what he was getting himself into! With the babies of two big families tying the knot, what could possibly go wrong? Together, Jerry and Linda welcomed two children, Tiffany Cotton-Beerbower and John Jerry Norwood Jr. In 1992 Jerry welcomed another daughter, Brittanika Thompson, with Emery Thompson- Underwood. Jerry later met Shedra Edwards. Now, rumor has it they were married—but if anyone can locate an actual marriage certificate now would be the time to speak up. Go ahead, we’ll wait...

Hobbies and Interests

Jerry, better known as “The Phone Man” (a title lovingly given to him by Grandma Maxine), was always on the phone. If your phone rang, there was a good chance it was Jerry calling to say “I don’t want nothin”, while also seeing if you could spare $5 or $6 for something important (at least according to him!) Jerry enjoyed entertaining family with his attempts at singing and dancing, whether anyone asked for a performance or not. He loved joking around, cutting up with family, firing up the grill at BBQs, spending lake days in Minneapolis, and making memories at family reunions. Perhaps Jerry’s greatest hobby was Facebook. If there was a thought to share, a photo to post, or a comment to leave, Jerry was on it. Some might say Facebook was his main job. He kept family and friends laughing, fighting, and connected. Jerry lived his way—with plenty of conversations, laughter, and a personality that was impossible to ignore. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who knew and loved him.

Jerry was preceded in death by his parents, James Willie Norwood and Maxine Stanford- Norwood; his wife (did y’all find that marriage certificate yet, haha), Shedra Norwood; and his sister, Linda Kay Norwood. 

He leaves to cherish his memory: Two daughters, Tiffany Beerbower and husband Bryan, of Minnesota, and Brittankia Thompson of Oklahoma. One son, John Jerry Norwood, Jr. of Minnesota. Two stepsons, Shannon and Sheldon of Nebraska. His beloved grandchildren, Tatyana, Tailyn, Jayden, and Jaxson of Minnesota. His siblings: Tonette Stanford of Wichita, Kansas; Ronnie Norwood (Wanda) of Muskogee, Oklahoma; Wyvette Palmer of Elk City, Oklahoma; Kimberly Gross of Memphis, Tennessee; Hope Mayes of Tulsa, Oklahoma; Walter Norwood of Dayton, Ohio; and Tina Norwood of Muskogee, Oklahoma; One maternal uncle, Sammie Stanford (Margo) of Muskogee, Oklahoma; Along with a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, and dear friends who will forever cherish his memory. 

Jerry’s life was a testament to love, faith, family, and friendship. Though he will be deeply missed, his legacy lives on through the many lives he touched.

“Rest Well”

Mr. John Jerry Norwood Sr., after 61 years, surrendered his soul on Monday, June 1, 2026 from Muskogee.

The Hour of Remembrance for Mr. Norwood will commence on Saturday, June 20, 2026 at the Tenth Hour in the Macedonia Baptist Church in Muskogee, where Pastor Larry Smith will preside.

You may visit Mr. Norwood, as he slumbers in peaceful repose in The People's Chapel of Keith D. Biglow Funeral Directors Inc., of Muskogee, on Friday, June 19, 2026 between the hours of 2:00 PM until 6:00 PM.

You may order flowers: (918)687-7574 lakelandflorist.com