Honoring the Life and Legacy of John W. Norman: A Stalwart of the Oklahoma Legal Community
The Oklahoma legal community mourns the passing of one of its most distinguished and beloved members, John Wayne Norman.
A native son of Temple, Oklahoma, and a product of the University of Oklahoma College of Law, John W. Norman built a legal career that spanned decades, shaped industries, and inspired generations of attorneys. Known for his fierce intellect, unshakable principles, and indomitable courtroom presence, John dedicated his life to fighting for those harmed by powerful interests—long before such causes were popular or profitable.
He was not just a brilliant trial lawyer. He was a visionary. In the early days of litigation against Big Tobacco and asbestos manufacturers, John stood on the front lines, determined to hold these corporate giants accountable. His pioneering work in personal injury, wrongful death, and product liability cases helped transform the landscape of consumer safety in Oklahoma and beyond. His efforts led to systemic change—safer products, more transparent industry practices, and justice for countless families.
In 1978, John was invited to join the Inner Circle of Advocates, an elite group of the top 100 plaintiff lawyers in the country, later serving as its president from 2003 to 2005. But for all his accolades and national recognition, John never lost his Oklahoma roots or his fundamental belief that "the law is never settled until it’s settled right."
Outside the courtroom, John was as dynamic as he was devoted. A husband of 61 years to his beloved Cecelia, a father to three sons, and a doting grandfather known as “Dadow,” he brought the same passion and purpose to his family life as he did to his practice. He shared wisdom freely, laughed often, and embraced the beauty of a life fully lived—from fly-fishing in New Mexico to dancing in the living room with his granddaughters.
John W. Norman was bold, kind, and profoundly impactful. He was a mentor to many, a friend to all, and a steadfast force for justice. His absence will be deeply felt—but his legacy, etched in both the law and in the hearts of those who knew him, will endure.
Services will be held at Council Road Baptist Church in Bethany, Oklahoma, on Wednesday, May 28th, with burial to follow in his hometown of Temple. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research.
We honor a man who never shied away from a fight, never lost sight of his values, and never stopped believing in the power of the law to make the world a better place. Thank you, John, for your life’s work and your unwavering spirit.