James Normand Jr.

     James Normand Jr. (Jay), 70, of Jacksonville, FL. Departed this life on October 19, 2020
peacefully surrounded by his family.
     He grew up and graduated high school in Louisiana then joined the U.S. Navy where he
served 8 yrs onboard the USS Saratoga during the Vietnam War. He then settled in Jacksonville,
FL where he continued to work at NADEP as a civil service government employee until his
retirement in 2008.
     He is survived by his 2 daughters; Leah and Sarah (Joe). 5 grandchildren; Brooklyn
(Jared), Ava, Andrew, Rowen and Hollan. 1 great grandchild Killian James. 5 brothers and
sisters; Glen (Diane), Faith (Rick), Van (Pam), Andre (Earl), Adrian and a sister in law Barbara.
Also many nieces and nephews.
     Jay loved his family deeply. He spent his many days since retirement traveling to
Louisiana to spend time with his family. He loved crawfish boils, the bayou and just overall
quality time with his siblings.
     Most of his days were spent sitting on his back porch enjoying his plants, the birds and the
beautiful weather, no matter the forecast. He always said it was a gift from God. His
grandchildren were a great source of pride and joy to him. He was relentless in his efforts to
teach them about love, life, cooking and being a kind person.
     Jay had a very close friend, Tracey, whom aided and supported him until his final
moments. He had many other friends and acquaintances who all agree that Jay made some sort
of impact in their lives for the better just by being himself.
     Jay will be tremendously missed by many, but his legacy of love and patience will always
be carried on through the lives he touched.
     Jay was preceded in departure from this earth by his parents, James Sr and Vera, as well
as his brother Chuck (Uncle Ducky).