James Norton

James "Jim" Barry Norton, Sr. passed away at his residence Sunday, May 16, 2010. He was born in Dallas in 1966, the son of Jack Norton and Patsy (Sparkman) Norton. He was a bail bondsman and he was of the Baptist faith.
Survivors include: son, James Norton, Jr.; mother Patsy Norton, both of Sulphur Springs; father, Jack Norton and wife, Marlene, of Livingston; brother, Jack Norton, Jr. of Phoenix, Arizona and three sisters, Denise Maddox of New Waverly, Barbara Norton and Kathy Schoettlin, both of Houston. He was preceded in death by two sisters, Cheryl Lynn Norton and Karen Rushing.
Everyone that knew Jim was aware he had a heart of gold and would always be there if someone needed assistance. From being there to listen to the children read at the elementary school that James, Jr. attended to helping fixing a problem at a neighbor's house. He was involved in the Empty Stocking program where his love for children really showed through. He was never afraid to travel anywhere family was living when they were in need. All of the family and friends knew that if help was needed, Jim would be there to do whatever he could. Jim raised James, Jr. to be a fine young man and as a single parent, he was not afraid to ask family for advice on how to be a better father.
He was an avid outdoors person, always ready to jump on a jet ski or four wheeler to have a little fun. Jim loved the water and skiing was a favorite. As a child he was the normal boy. He liked to climb trees, build a fort and of course aggravate his sisters. As he grew, he went to the rodeo with his dad and spent time with family and friends. Jim loved to go with his brother, Jack, and help him with his motorcycle business, going to rallies across the country. At the end of the day they would jump on the bikes, with James, Jr., in tow, and ride down the beach to relax before calling it a day.
James, Jr., had a dog, Roxie, and as the saying goes, "children and dogs are sensitive to good people." Roxie stayed by Jim's side as if to know he needed someone to protect him. Roxie will be sad with the rest of us, but will show us strength to carry on.
There is a loss here that so many people will see as the guy that was always there is gone to a better place. There will be time for his son, family and friends to grieve, but to remember the way he touched everyone's life will remain forever.