Norman Louis Jones

Norman Louis Jones 66, of Cleveland, Ohio, formally of Far Rockaway, New York by way of Birmingham, Alabama, was called home on July 29th, 2020. Norman, affectionately known as “Shorty,” to his family and close friends, was born on March 3, 1954, in Birmingham, Alabama to, Eloise Jones and Dr. Rudolph. He was the oldest of three siblings; Denise Dennis, and Reginald Walker. Both parents and brother, Reginald, preceded him in death. Norman is survived by his wife, Nancy Stroman- Jones, their daughters; Mariegabrielle Crucita Jones, and Nicole Ruby Jones, also by Tracey Stewart, and their two children, Natosha Stewart, and Norman Stewart, five grandchildren; Coleman Prince James (12), Phoenix Lenore James (11) Bryce MacArthur James (10), Alisa Jordan (16), and Roman Lewis Stewart (4). A sister, Denise Dennis (James) his father figure, Uncle Sonny (Carolyn), his surrogate brother, Antonio (Tony) Jones (Tammie), and a host of other uncles; cousins, nieces and nephews.

For the early part of Norman’s life, he lived in Birmingham, with his maternal grandmother, Ruby Jones, lovingly known as Mama Ruby, (she made her transition in 1988). Norman moved to Cleveland when he was 10 years old, with his Mama Ruby, and his younger siblings, Denise and Reggie in tow. Upon their return to Birmingham, some years later, Norman chose to remain in Cleveland.

From a very young age, Norman was motivated to provide for himself financially. He knew the value of a dollar and he understood the meaning of hard work. Norman was a very hard worker with a strong work ethic. His hard work extended beyond his traditional nine to five occupations.

Norman became a world class bowler, winning countless tournaments, he spent most of his waking hours in Shaw Lanes (Bowling Alley and Pool Hall) in East Cleveland. This is where Norman perfected his bowling and pool skills. Norman was also known to have played in a tournament with the late great Minnesota Fats; a celebrity and a legend in pool halls across the country. Norman was a legend in his own right, he was known from coast to coast as one of the best. Norman traveled the Country participating in tournaments both bowling and billiards, ultimately bringing home many, many trophies and cash prizes.

Norman eventually left Cleveland, New York bound in the mid-1970’s to help out his mother Eloise, who lived in Far Rockaway New York. This is where Norman met the love of his life, Nancy Stroman. Nancy and Norman went on to get married in 1979 and have two beautiful daughters; Mariegabrielle Crucita Jones, and Nicole Ruby Jones. Upon separation of marriage, Norman met Tracy Stewart, and they produced two beautiful children; Natosha and Norman, Jr.

Norman was loved by many, friends and family alike, to know Norman was to love him. As time passed and life settled, Norman’s health declined. Unable to travel and do the things that he was so passionate about, he became a homebody. Norman attended family functions when able, and spent a lot of time with his grandchildren, who brought him much joy. He liked traveling to the corner store in his neighborhood working on his van and socializing. Norman remained a fun-loving guy who had a wit about him. He was a one of kind type of guy who will be missed.

Another branch has fallen from the family tree…