James Earl Norman, 83, a retired professor and language enthusiast passed away onSaturday, May 27, 2023, in Tallahassee, FL. He was born on April 28, 1940, in Wilson County, NC to Minnie Etta (Norman) Porter and William Telfor.

James, raised by his loving grandparents Masco and Gertie Bullock Norman, grew up in Elm City, NC and graduated from Frederick Douglass High School in 1957. He enlisted in the United States Air Force where he served seven years, including two years stationed in Puerto Rico. He earned a Bachelors degree in secondary education from Southern Oregon University and a Masters degree at Howard University. In 1983, he earned a PhD in Spanish Language from Florida State University. He served as a foreign language professor at FAMU for over 20 years. Most notably, James was the founder and director of the International Translation Center where he offered interpretative services to federal, state, and local agencies. James was fluent in English, Spanish and French

James is survived by his wife of 41 years, Ruena Norman; daughter, Amber Regina Norman; brothers, William Porter, Jr. and Alvin Lee Porter; sister, Rachel Barksdale; and a host of other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his sister, Mary Ann Porter.

A public viewing will be from 10am to 6pm, Friday, June 2, 2023 at Strong & Jones Funeral Home.

Funeral services will be 12 (noon), Saturday, June 3, 2023 at Watson Temple Institutional COGIC in Tallahassee, FL. Burial will take place at the Tallahassee National Cemetery, Monday, June 5, 2023 at 11 A.M.