Dr. Reverend Jack L. Norman, 88, entered the presence of the Lord surrounded by family and friends after a life marked by faithful service to Christ and compassionate care for people.
Jack was born on August 5, 1938, to Clarence Herbert and Jeanette Bennett Norman. He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers and sisters-in-law, James and Betty Lovensheimer, Marlin Norman, Junior Norman, Charles and Wilma Norman; sister, Barbara Tener; and brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Jack and Helen Hurley. Still surviving are his sister and brother-in-law, Mary and Marty McGuire, and sister-in-law, June Norman.
In June 1957, Jack married the former Boneda Coppock. Jack and Bonnie shared 69 years of marriage, with Bonnie serving as his constant partner in ministry and life. He is survived by his devoted wife, Bonnie; their two children, Tony (Louanne) Norman and Becky (Ralph) Hux; and a loving circle of grandchildren, Jenifer (Craig) Sanders, Joshua (Ashley) Norman, Danielle (Stefan) Price, and six great-grandchildren, Sophia, Alex and JC Sanders, Vivienne Kate Norman, Isaiah and Huxlee Price, who will remember him for his steady faith, gentle guidance, spiritual legacy, and loving presence. He also leaves behind many nieces and nephews.
He served his country in the National Guard. However, his greater calling was in the Lord’s Army. For more than 68 years, Rev. Norman ministered within The Churches of Christ in Christian Union—pastoring congregations, serving as a District Superintendent, and speaking at revivals and conferences where his messages encouraged clergy and laity alike. He was known not only for his administrative leadership but also for his pastoral heart. He pastored Fruit Hill, Winchester, Chillicothe High Street, and was the founding pastor of Brookside Church.
Rev. Norman was passionate about people—always advising, encouraging, and helping others—and was widely respected as both a servant and a leader in his community and denomination. Those who knew him remember his humility, his commitment to prayer and Scripture, and his example of servant leadership.
Jack did not simply preach the Gospel from a pulpit—he lived it. He believed that every person mattered to God and that every opportunity was an opportunity to encourage someone toward Christ. His life was a testimony that salvation is found in Jesus and that our earthly journey is ultimately leading us home to Him.
Jack’s hobbies included fishing, carpentry, camping, reading, classic cars, and, most importantly, winning souls to Jesus. His greatest desire was that people would know the saving grace of Jesus Christ.
Some of his life quotes included, “Don’t let it ruin your day,” and “How do you eat an elephant? One bite at a time.” His latest addition to his life quotes was, “Life is a voyage – Homeward bound!” Proverbs 29:18a, “Where there is no vision, the people perish…”, served as his life verse.
Jack’s commitment to God, his family, and God’s people stands as a testimony to his love for Christ and His Church. His ministry has had a tremendous impact on Ross County, the City of Chillicothe, and The Churches of Christ in Christian Union. Yet, perhaps his greatest legacy is found in the lives of those who came to know Jesus, were encouraged in their faith, or were challenged to live more fully for Christ because Jack Norman took the time to share the Gospel with them.
As Jack’s earthly journey comes to an end, his family finds comfort in the promise of the Gospel and the assurance that “to be absent from the body” is “to be present with the Lord” (2 Corinthians 5:8).
The family invites you to celebrate Rev. Norman’s life and legacy. Visitation will be on Tuesday, September 15, 2026 from 3:00 to 6:00 p.m., with the funeral immediately following at 6:00 p.m. at Brookside Church, 2215 Egypt Pike, Chillicothe, Ohio, with Pastor Ryan Bash officiating. Because of Jack’s deep love and commitment to Nipgen Camp and Brookside Church, instead of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to CCCU Nipgen Camp Development, 1553 Lancaster Pike, Circleville, OH 43113 or Brookside Church, 2215 Egypt Pike, Chillicothe, OH 45601. Arrangements are under the direction of the WARE FUNERAL HOME.
You may sign his online register at www.warefh.com
Full service details and the family guest book are available at Ware Funeral Home.