Henry James Norwood Jr.

Henry James Norwood Jr., age 79, of Toledo, Ohio, passed away peacefully at his home on Friday, November 28, 2025, surrounded by loved ones. Born on July 5, 1946, in Gloster, Mississippi, to Henry and Alma Norwood, he moved with his family to Toledo in 1952, where he would go on to leave a lasting legacy of service, leadership, and compassion. A proud 1964 graduate of Edward Drummond Libbey High School, Henry pursued higher education at The University of Toledo, earning both his Bachelor's and Master's degrees. Through the university’s ROTC program, he was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the U.S. Army and was assigned to Fort Knox, Kentucky, upon graduation of The University of Toledo. He served a tour of active duty in Vietnam and was honorably discharged in June of 1971 as a decorated officer. He received a Purple Heart with full military honors. Henry continued his military service in the Army Reserve, ultimately retiring with the rank of Major after 20 years of dedicated service. Following his military career, Henry devoted himself to public service in his hometown. He worked as a Juvenile Probation Officer and Supervisor at the Lucas County Juvenile Court and served at the Child Study Institute. As a Licensed Independent Chemical Dependency Counselor, he provided guidance and support when he was employed at TASC and at various community outreach programs. He was instrumental in founding the Jerusalem Outreach Youth Center, a youth advocacy initiative, and served on numerous boards throughout the Toledo community. Henry’s commitment to service extended beyond his professional life. He was a generous supporter of local organizations including The Kitchen for the Poor, The Cherry Street Mission, St. Paul’s Community Center, St. Jude Children’s Hospital, and the Toledo Gospel Rescue Mission. A gifted musician, he shared his talents with several area churches, including The Church of the New Covenant Baptist (Toledo), First Baptist Church (Swanton), and New Hope Baptist Church (Toledo). Furthermore, Henry was a faithful tither for over 50 years. He believed that giving back to the Lord was his priority. He was preceded in death by his parents, Henry and Alma Norwood, and his sister, Rosie Clark. He is survived by his beloved wife of 50 years, Annie Ruth Norwood; his daughter, Joy Elaine Norwood; his son, Henry James Norwood III (“Jay”); grandchildren, Brianna Norwood and Jaiden Norwood; great-grandchild, Malik Drakes Jr.; his brother, Dr. John (Marilyn) Norwood of Detroit, Michigan; and a host of extended family and cherished friends. The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the Veterans Administration, Homestead, Extended Grace, and the dedicated home health aides who provided compassionate care. Special thanks are also given to his lifelong friends of more than 60 years, William Hayes Sr. and Arthur Hill, for their enduring friendship and support.

Henry James Norwood Jr.

July 5, 1946 - November 28, 2025