John Lamar Norwood, 84
March 31, 1942 – October 12, 2026
John Lamar Norwood, born March 31, 1942, passed away at age 84 on October 12, 2026 in Marks, MS. John will be remembered for his strong work ethic, his love for his family, and the kindness that made him loved by everyone who knew him.
John was born on and raised in Lambert, Mississippi. He began working as a farmer for James Holloway. When John was in the sixth grade, he made the selfless decision to leave school and go to work to help support his mother and siblings.
In 1964, John moved with his family to Okolona, Mississippi, where his life took a special turn when he met the love of his life, Edith Mae Jolly. The two were married on May 26, 1967, and have been married for 59 years, beginning a marriage and family that would become the center of John’s world. Together, they raised four children: Tina Red (Donald), Tammy Norwood, Clint Norwood (Tina), and Cliff Norwood (Stacy).
During his years in Okolona, he worked at Futorian and later at Eljer in Verona, where he eventually retired. Retirement, however, did not keep John from doing what he had always done consistently, working. He went on to work for Barton Equipment Company for 10 years, followed by eight years working for Bill and Bob Gregory on Poverty Hill Farms in Chickasaw Co.
Services will take place at 11 AM Friday, Oct. 16, 2026 in the Okolona Chapel of Holland Funeral Directors with his son, Cliff speaking along with others. Private family burial will follow in New Hope Cemetery west of Okolona. Visitation will begin at 10 AM Friday and continue to service time. Holland Funeral Directors is honored to be serving their good friends.
His greatest legacy lives on through his family. In addition to his beloved wife of 59 years, Edith Mae,; his three sons, Tammy Norwood, Clint Norwood (Tina) and Cliff Norwood (Stacy); his grandchildren: Matt Red, Tyler Norwood, Audreanna Pounds, Alley Stewart, Wesley Norwood, Anna Grace Norwood, and Sadie Norwood; 11 great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild.
John was preceded in death by his parents, William Cokley Norwood and Madie Leona Sanders Norwood, his daughter, Tina Red, brothers – James Lewis, Donnie, William Cokley Jr, and Michael Norwood, and one sister, Willie Ann Abernathy
Pallbearers are Scott Mize, Semar Vaughn, Doug McNeely, Matt Red, Derrick Pounds, and Adam Norwood. Honorary Pallbearers are Bill Gregory, Bob Gregory, Larry Kyles, and Wesley Norwood.
Please follow the funeral home link above for further information, or to send online condolences or memorial gifts.
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