Haywood Vernon Norwood Jr.

Haywood Vernon Norwood, Jr., of Charlotte, North Carolina, died peacefully on Tuesday, Sept. 12, 2017, surrounded by family and friends. He was born in Union County, North Carolina, on Jan. 16, 1939, to Haywood Vernon Norwood, Sr., and Margaret Stewart Norwood.

Vernon’s undergraduate degree was from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where he also graduated from the School of Law. He served in the United States Navy as a Lieutenant and a member of the Judge Advocate General’s (JAG) Corp, serving at the Pentagon. He practiced law in Charlotte for over 50 years, was a member of Providence Presbyterian Church, a 32nd Degree Mason, and a past Master of Temple Lodge 676.

Whether volunteering as a Boy Scout Master or serving law clients, many of whom became close friends over the years, Vernon had a smile and a joy for life that brightened the many lives he touched. An avid NPR (National Public Radio) listener, he was always happy to share laughs about obscure historical and political tidbits that he had committed to memory. He loved a good discussion – whether with someone he knew or someone he had just met – and was always open to learn new things, consider new ideas, and to better his mind.

He is survived by his beloved wife of almost 49 years, Hilda Starnes Norwood. They had been sweethearts since first grade. He is also survived by two children, John Norwood (Kristine) of Raleigh, North Carolina, and Julia Jackson (Robert) of Evanston, Illinois; four grandchildren, Jefferson Norwood, Emilie Norwood, Emma Jackson, and Caroline Jackson; a dear aunt, Lenora Fincher; and three special cousins, Doloris Learmonth, Pansy Moseley, and Clyde Norwood. Vernon enjoyed spending time with his family and was a great source of happiness to them. He will be deeply missed, especially by his grandchildren, who will miss their Poppi.

A funeral will be held at Providence Presbyterian Church (address below) on Saturday, Sept. 16, at 2 o’clock in the afternoon, with burial to follow in the church cemetery. Family will receive visitors afterwards at a reception in the church fellowship hall.

Memorials may be made to Providence Presbyterian Church, 10140 Providence Church Lane, Charlotte, NC 28277; or Pleasant Grove Campground, 658 Cotton Field Circle, Waxhaw, NC 28173.