On November 25, 2023, Texas LODD Task Force Founder and Chief of Staff, Chief John P. Norris, Jr. died in the line of duty. Chief Norris collapsed and died after fighting a fire.
Chief Norris was married to Task Force Founder and CEO, Wendy C. Norris. He was instrumental in creating and setting up the non-profit status of the Texas LODD Task Force. His duties over the years have been as a Response Commander, administrative support, and Chief of Staff. Even though his position kept him out of the spotlight of the organization, his service to the Task Force was invaluable and crucial to the well-being of not only our response team members but of the organization as a whole. His loss has been a devastating blow to the Texas LODD Task Force. His celebration of life was planned by many of our response team members. The Norris family is deeply grateful for all of their efforts in ensuring that he was honored and that his legacy would continue moving forward.
Obituary
It is with heavy hearts and profound sadness that we announce the passing of John P. Norris Jr. On Saturday, November 25th John died suddenly after working a structure fire. He was dedicated to the service and protection of others. John served both the Houston Fire Department and the Forest Bend Fire department where he has served as a paramedic, airport rescue firefighter, wildland firefighter, safety officer, assistant chief, and as a chief. He leaves behind a legacy of courage, dedication, and unwavering commitment.
Born on January 28, 1968, John Norris was a beloved son, brother, husband, father, and friend. His journey into the world of firefighting began when he joined the Houston Fire Department on April 2, 1990. He joined the Forest Bend Fire Department in 2005 as a volunteer and rose to the rank of Chief.
John was more than just a firefighter; he was a mentor, a leader, and a source of inspiration to others. John was stoic and a deep thinker. That personality often came off, as we jokingly liked to say, as gruff. Sometimes it was hard to know whether he was serious about an issue or if he was joking. Through the gruff exterior, John was a deeply compassionate man who loved his fire family and absolutely adored his family, especially his daughter, Catherine. She was his greatest joy and being a father was his favorite title.
John leaves behind a legacy that will forever remain in the hearts and minds of those who knew him. He is survived by his loving family, including wife Wendy C. Norris, daughter Catherine Norris, sister Sheree Wood, and brother Henry “Sonny” Norris. His memory will also be cherished by his firefighting family, the brave men and women who served alongside John, and the community he protected. He was preceded in death by mother, Nellie Norris, father, John P. Norris Sr., brother Nathan Norris, grandmother, Millie Jergensen, grandfather, John Norris, grandmother, Annie McClain, grandfather Ralph McClain, niece, Amy Norris, and nephew Bo Dorton.
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