Herbert A. Norris

Born Herbert Duncan on September 20, 1948 in Detroit. Michigan; Herbert was blessed to be adopted at the age of eight, along with his brother Harlequin Duncan into the family of Allen James and Thelma Beatrice Norris taking the name Herbert Allen and Harlequin James. Joining sister, Viola Vivian Hardy Dismal and brother, Walter Clarence Hardy III, also adopted. All preceded him in death. He started his formal education in the Detroit Public School System but concluded his education in Inkster, Michigan. A graduate of Inkster High School Class of 1967, where he played the French horn in the school’s marching band and was an accomplished artist in painting water colors and sketching in pencil and charcoal. There is a rumor that Herbert contributed to the 1967 Yearbook. After graduation, he was employed with Wayne County General Hospital in radiology; until the United States Army called Herbert to report to Fort Polk in Louisiana to serve in Viet Nam (1968-70). He received an honorable discharge. He returned home and returned to his former employer; until his transfer to the Wayne County Sheriff Department-Juvenile Detention Facility in Detroit, with the closing of the hospital. He joined Mount Holly Missionary Baptist, Inkster Masonic Lodge, and attended Wayne County Community College. In 1984, Herbert became the proud father of Megan Seals, with Bookie Seals. Megan will continue her father’s legacy. In 1990, Herbert met his life-journey partner, Carol Faison of Detroit, and they married August 1, 1991, from this union, he became a devoted step-father to Kenneth Faison Newsome, who preceded him in death. The family joined Word of Faith Christian Center of Southfield, Michigan under the leadership of Bishop Keith Butler, until Herbert’s health no longer permitted.

Herbert led a full life. He continued his artistic talents with displays throughout their home. He enjoyed maintaining the landscape of their home. Hosted many game nights and sports party with family and friends. He looked forward to his weekend fishing trips to Canada with his cousins, Greg and Linda Nelson. He kept up on latest movies on Tuesday Date Night. Taking an evening stroll to get to know his neighbors. Playing dominos with his childhood friends and coworkers. He enjoyed bowling and had an insatiable appetite for reading newspapers. He enjoyed taking road trips to visit his family and friends. And, when he could no longer drive, traveled by train or airplane. In 1998, Herbert retired from Wayne County after serving 31-years.

Herbert’s health was his testimony to his faith in God. He confronted and dealt with each health issue with a good and thankful heart. For he fought the good fight. Herbert never lost his smile or his laughter. He could catch you off guard with his quick wit answers or comebacks when you least expected, only to remind us, “I’m still here!” “Don’t count me out, yet!” But, then came that minute, He instructed to take off his armor, lay down his sword and was permitted to rest. Herbert made his transition on June 3, 2021.

Herbert leaves to cherish his memory his loving and devoted wife, Carol. His daughter, Megan Seals. Sister-in-laws Paula Faison Johnson, Margaret Faison King; nephews, Michael Paul Johnson (Quanisha), Jessie Roy Johnson (Aisha). His dearest cousins David & Audrea Agee, Eddie and Delores Newell; his dearest friends Newton & Florette-Brown Gibson, Johnny & Pearl Ellis; his best friend Melvin Brown and his brother from another mother, Ronnie Young. A host of grand and great nieces and nephews, cousins, family and friends.