Jimmy Edward Norton

It is with deep respect and heartfelt remembrance that we announce the passing of Jimmy Edward Norton, 84, who peacefully transitioned to Heaven early Tuesday morning, April 7, 2026, at his home. Born on June 13, 1941, a native of the Wrens-Matthews area, Jimmy graduated from Wrens High School in 1959 and lived a life marked by dedication, faith, and steadfast love for his family and community.

After high school, Jimmy moved to Newport News, Virginia, where he contributed his skills in the shipyard, notably working on the first nuclear warship. During this time, he earned his associate's degree, married, and began building his family. In 1964, he relocated his family to Augusta, embarking on a career at Fort Gordon’s sheet metal shop. His entrepreneurial spirit led him to start his own business in 1977, Norton Sheet Metal, which evolved into Mechanical Trades, Inc. by 1982. Following the loss of his beloved wife, Sandra, Jimmy sold the company to his son and returned to Wrens in 2005. There, he found new joy and companionship, marrying Melanie in December 2011.

Jimmy's life was deeply rooted in his Christian faith. He accepted Jesus as his Lord and Savior and served faithfully as a past member of Mt. Horeb Baptist Church and Silver Crest Baptist Church, where he was honored to serve as a Deacon. He was also an active member of Wrens Baptist Church. His spiritual commitment was a guiding light throughout his life.

A man of industrious nature, Jimmy loved working on his farm and took great pleasure in operating his tractors and heavy equipment. One of his most cherished moments was sharing the joy of riding his grandson, Cole, on the backhoe. Known as a hard worker who preferred to stay busy, Jimmy’s dedication extended into all areas of his life, especially toward his family, whom he loved dearly.

Jimmy is lovingly survived by his wife, Melanie Huffman Norton; his children Douglas Norton, Ronald Norton (Karen), Nick Rozier (Laura), and Valerie Douglas (Cliff); and seven grandchildren: Summerlyn Mott (Ryan), Madison Prescott (Alex), Katie Hughes (Kenneth), Kelly Dalton, Michael Dalton (MacKenzie), Hailey Thompson (Landry), and Cole Douglas. He was also a proud great-grandfather to nine great-grandchildren: Ledger Mott, Wells Mott, Navy Mott, Rowan Prescott, Daisy Prescott, Dalton Hughes, Addison Hughes, Olivia Dalton, and Ava Dalton. Jimmy's devoted brother, Billy Norton (Shirley), along with extended family and friends, also carry forward his memory with love.

He was preceded in death by his spouse, Sandra Holley Norton; his parents, Beulah Arrington Norton and Frank Norton; and his sister, Cornelia Norton Smith.

The visitation for Jimmy will be held from 12:30PM-2:00PM Monday, April 13, 2026, at James Funeral Home. A funeral service will follow immediately after at 2:00PM with Terry Holley officiating. Interment will take place at Mt. Horeb Baptist Church Cemetery with Tony Branham officiating the committal service. Honored to serve as pallbearers include Michael Dalton, Mike Henderson, Kenneth Hughes, Josh McBride, Steve Perdue and Gary Webb.

The family suggests that, in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions be made to the Wrens Baptist Church Greater Things Fund, by mailing your check to Wrens Baptist Church, PO Box 217, Wrens GA 30833 or online at wrensbaptist.org, GIVE tab, Greater Things/Building Fund and following prompts. Be sure to “Add a message” – Memorial for Jimmy Norton.

Jimmy Edward Norton lived a life of unwavering commitment — to his faith, his family, his work, and his community. His legacy endures through the many lives he touched, the values he epitomized, and the love he shared. He will be remembered with great affection and profound respect.