Norman Lee Brodnax

Norman Lee Brodnax, Sr. was called home to be with the Lord on January 9, 2025. Never to be away from her husband for too long, beloved wife Barbara Ann followed him home on January 10, 2025. Norman and Barbara were the loving parents of sons Norman Jr., forever known as “Poochie”, Ty, affectionately referred to as “Roni”, Jeffery, and predeceased cherished son and daughter, Christopher, and Anita. The Dynamic Duo of Norman and Barbara became the Three Musketeers with son Roni caring for them until their very last days, Jeff maintaining the home following his father’s stroke, and Poochie and his wife Yuko, providing much-needed love and support as their health began to fade.

Norman, a man of quiet strength, was born in Brunswick, VA. One of nine children to Bertha and John T. Brodnax, the family proudly built their home by hand. As Norman told it, there may have been light snow coming through the rafters that laid on their shoulders in the morning, but none of that mattered. They were happy. His skill continued, building the shed in the backyard of his and Barbara’s Chesapeake home, the large addition to their house, and the deck where he could be found grilling the best ribs you ever had. Norman also went to school for HVAC systems where he made the Dean’s list. He mastered the art of woodworking and with Norman around, there was no need for a repairman. He could fix anything. Norman proudly served his country as a Chief Petty Officer and machinist in the United States Navy. His military career spanned the Cuban Missile Crisis and the Vietnam War. Known for being a man of routine, Norman began each day dressed in perfectly creased, pleated khaki pants or jeans, and a button-down oxford, followed by his daily bowl of Cheerios with bananas on top. Ten almonds, meticulously counted, were his afternoon snack, and another ten in the evening. Unsalted, of course. Thoughtful and calm, Norman was an attentive listener, speaking when there was something important or meaningful to say. When Norman spoke, you best listen. Above all, Norman loved his family. And if ever you were in need, Norman was there to help, never turning his back on anyone.

Barbara, a woman whose personality filled every room, was born in Franklin, VA. The youngest daughter of four children born to George, Sr. and Rena Wilson, she was known to many as a “Baby doll”. A strong woman, with an infectious laugh and quick wit, Barbara always had a good story, family memory, or life lesson to share. She was known for her sayings that always made you laugh and that more often than not, included reference to a skillet.  Barbara was blessed with the gift of discernment and had the hearing of an owl. You could be in another room, down the hall, or quietly whispering when suddenly, Barbara could be seen rounding the corner, ready to jump into the conversation. She had a large network of friends, always keeping in touch with them on the phone with a telephone cord that seemed to stretch for miles. She was a woman who spoke her mind, who inspired and empowered others to do the same. Someone whose strength compelled you to move forward, even in the most difficult times. No one was a stranger to Barbara. She gave everyone, from all walks of life, a chance. Deeply grounded in her faith, the sounds of gospel music filled the house, with sermons on the television in the background. God was her north star. If you needed comfort, strength, or maybe even a good talking to, Barbara had a Bible verse at the ready. She was also a tremendous cook. Smothered pork chops with gravy, chicken and dumplings, collard greens, and fried chicken needed no recipe. Like Norman, she fiercely loved and protected her family. Not long before she passed, she imparted sage words of wisdom when she said, “It’s a blessing to get old. Not everyone gets that chance.” There was no one like Barbara.

Together, their marriage spanned 63 years. 23,000 days, each one filled with more than one memory. They raised five exceptional children and made their home a safe haven that was welcome to all, where the doorbell and phone never stopped ringing, where music was appreciated and listened to daily, and where love, laughter, and Barbara’s home cooking were plentiful. They were an extraordinary couple, who leaned on their deep faith that served as a strong foundation for others, even as they mourned the loss of their baby Chris, and only daughter Nita. They stood side by side to instill in their children respect, decency, forgiveness, compassion, and responsibility. When Norman was on duty, Barbara took care of the home, making cheese toast and hot chocolate before sending the children off to school. They were proud of what they accomplished, as they should have been, active in the neighborhood civic league, ensuring the neighborhood was safe and well cared for. Mother, father, sister, brother, aunt, uncle, friend, shoulder to lean on, Norman and Barbara meant so much to everyone.

In good times and bad, in sickness and in health, in this life and now for eternity, Norman and Barabara will always be together. While the loss is profound and the grief acute, there is comfort in knowing they are reunited with Nita and Chris, who were so happy to see them. Rest in heaven Norman and Barabara. You both were and will continue to be, deeply loved.