Pastor Earnest "Graveyard" (Red) Norwood

Harpersville, Alabama - Pastor Earnest Norwood, affectionately known by many as “Graveyard” or “Red,” was born on January 15, 1954, in Sweetwater, Alabama. He peacefully departed this earthly life on May 7, 2026, under the compassionate care of Coosa Valley Medical Center.

Pastor Norwood received his education from Vincent High School, where he graduated and formed many lifelong friendships. Throughout his life, he wore many hats and touched countless lives along the way. In his younger years, he was well known as a talented Disc Jockey (DJ), bringing joy and entertainment to many through music. He later worked in construction before answering the call into ministry, where he faithfully served as Pastor of Freewill Church of God in Christ.

Pastor Norwood was a devoted servant of God, a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend. He was truly a people person who never met a stranger. Known for his leadership, warm spirit, and welcoming heart, he inspired many through his wisdom, faith, and kindness. He loved traveling, spending time with his family, and cheering faithfully for his beloved Alabama Crimson Tide with his favorite saying, “Roll Tide.”

He was preceded in death by his parents, Lonnie E. Norwood and Lonnie Mae Norwood; siblings, Ruth Ola Norwood, Johnny Norwood, Emerson Norwood, Maple Pelmer, Billy Norwood, Paul Mann, Katherine Norwood, and Andrew Norwood.

He leaves to cherish his precious memories his devoted wife, Grace Norwood of Childersburg, Alabama; children, Tammy (Jesse) Coats of Birmingham, Alabama, Nikeshia Tompkins of Florida, Shani (Bryon) Oden of Childersburg, Alabama, Tanya (Cortland) Robertson of Vincent, Alabama, Shanita Norwood of Huntsville, Alabama, and Dara Buck of Birmingham, Alabama; goddaughter, Robin (Jermaine) Carlisle of Huntsville, Alabama; siblings, Elvis (Rita) Mann of Childersburg, Alabama, Richard (Cynthia) Norwood of Huntsville, Alabama, and Jackie (Bobby) Spears of Harpersville, Alabama; special brother, Roney (Lenora) Williams of Michigan; godsister, Cathrine Chancellor (Leo) of Childersburg, Alabama; 21 grandchildren; 22 great-grandchildren; one aunt, Debrah Adams; along with a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives, church family, and many dear friends.

Pastor Earnest Norwood’s life was a shining example of faith, love, leadership, and service. Though he will be deeply missed, his legacy will forever live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

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