Isaac Walker Norman

Having served his family and his community for over 99 years, Isaac Walker “Jock” Norman finally rested at his home on January 29, 2025. Born to parents, Isaac and Winifred Rickard Norman, on October 11,1925, Jock spent his early years exploring the creeks and fields of Norman’s Crossing, along with siblings, Wynette and Howard. The family soon moved down the road to the farmhouse built by his grandfather in 1906, a house that would become a symbol of perseverance, comfort, and love for Jock for the rest of his life. 

Following the death of his father when Jock was only 10 years old, he began working the farm and helping his mother as she rented out rooms in their home to make ends meet – all while excelling in his studies at the school at Norman’s Crossing. It was through these challenging childhood experiences that Jock learned the importance of determination, frugality, commitment to family and love of farming – traits that would mold his character and shape his future years. Jock graduated Valedictorian of the class of 1942 from Hutto High school, where he was President of his senior class, and was a proud member and Captain of the Hippo football team.

Following graduation, Jock served his country as Second Lieutenant of the United States Army Air Corp, training to be a navigator and bombardier at bases in Louisiana, Utah and New Mexico. After his service to his country, Jock enrolled and excelled in the University of Texas, graduating with a degree in geology. 

Jock married his love, Frances Tyler, from neighboring Taylor, on April 10, 1948, and the couple moved to Houston to pursue their passions of geology and art. Together they raised five children, Wynette, Leigh, Pat, Lisa, and Howard. Jock’s career as a geologist took him from Gulf Oil Corporation, to the Brown Family, and later Highland Resources. While progressing in his career and raising their family, the Normans kept strong ties to Norman’s Crossing, frequently returning to the farmhouse for weekend visits. Upon retirement and upon the promise of building Frances an art studio, they returned to their roots and spent their golden years tending the fields in the place that always felt most like home. Jock could usually be found on his tractor or enjoying quiet moments on the porch, taking in the sunset with a cigar in hand. 

Jock will be laid to rest by his wife of 70 years, Frances, and his only son, Howard. Jock will be sadly missed and joyfully remembered by his daughters, Wynette Lessner and husband, Roy, Leigh Norman, Pat Norman, and Lisa Norman and husband, Patrick Gaylor. He is also in the hearts of five grandchildren: Katherine Shannon Hess and fiancé, Matthew Greene; Chris Shannon and wife, Leanne; Bridget Brewer and husband, Nick; Will Lessner and Adrian Lessner. Five great-grandchildren, Madeline and Grayson Hess, Caitlin and CJ Shannon, and Lainey Robinson also carry his legacy. The family wishes to express heartfelt thanks to Camille, Carmen, Rob, Brenda, Debbie and Marguerite who served as loving caretakers and steadfast companions to Jock during his final years. 

A Visitation was held on Tuesday, February 4, 2025, at Providence Funeral Home. A Graveside Service followed at Hutto Cemetery.