James Norwood Whitley III

James Norwood Whitley III, 66, of Stantonsburg, NC passed away peacefully on October 25, 2024. Born on November 19, 1957, Norwood lived a life marked by compassion, integrity, grace and devotion to his family, his faith, and his community.

Norwood is survived by his loving wife, Donna Whitley of Stantonsburg, NC, with whom he shared an enduring and beautiful life. He was a devoted and caring father to his daughter, Elizabeth “Lizzy” Clapsadl and her husband David of Wilson, NC, and to his son, James Norwood Whitley IV and his wife Hope of Stantonsburg, NC.

His brother, Colonel Albert H. Whitley and wife Roberta of Fredericksburg, VA, and sister, Deborah "Debbie" Schlechte and husband Gene of Manassas, VA, will remember him with deepest love and respect. Norwood's joy was multiplied by his grandchildren, who he loved dearly and truly cherished; James "Jay" Norwood Whitley V, and Eason Hayes Whitley of Stantonsburg, NC, and granddaughter Anna James Clapsadl of Wilson, NC. He was preceded in death by his parents, J. Norwood Whitley Jr. and Shirley Hayes Whitley, who instilled in him the values of family and faith.

Professionally, Norwood was a respected project manager in the field of medical engineering, where his passion and expertise contributed to advancements that touched countless lives. His colleagues will remember him as a man who brought both skill and integrity to every project he undertook. He was also an inventor on a team that created the Y-site, a system used today in the medical field.  

He was a native of Stantonsburg, NC and alumnus of Saratoga Central High School where he played football.  Norwood was a devout Christian and a pillar of the Bay Leaf Church in Raleigh, NC, where he sang in the choir and vocal ensemble and served as a deacon for over twenty years. His deep faith was evident in his commitment to help and the servant -like example he set for others.

Norwood was also a graduate of NC State University and a passionate fan, where he was an active member of the NC State Glee Club during his college years. His love for music was a thread that ran through his life, and he found joy in singing with Wakefield 5, a gospel music group that brought smiles to many faces.

In his spare time, Norwood dedicated himself to coaching Pop Warner football, where he was not just a coach but a mentor to the young athletes. His sense of humor and passion for the game made lasting impressions on all who played for him.

Those who knew Norwood will remember a man who was funny and passionate in equal measure. He had the rare ability to light up a room with his humor and to inspire others with his enthusiasm for life. Norwood's legacy is one of love, laughter, and unwavering dedication to the things that mattered most to him: his family, his faith, and his community.

He will be deeply missed, but his memory will live on in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing him.

A funeral service to celebrate his life will be held 11:00AM Saturday, on November 2, 2024 at Mt. Nelson Baptist Missionary Church, 206 W Main St, Eureka, NC 27830 with Pastor Jimmy Dale officiating. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service. Interment will follow the service in Stantonsburg Cemetery in Stantonsburg, NC.  In honor of Norwood, please wear your NC State red, as there is a game, and he would let you know if you were in the wrong color.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to Alzheimer's Association, 5171 Glenwood Ave #101, Raleigh, NC 27612 or Mt. Nelson Missionary Baptist Church, PO Box 3239, Eureka, NC 27830. Arrangements are in the care of Providence Funeral & Cremation Service 519 Broad St. W. Wilson, NC 27893. Phone: (252) 674-1553 

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