James Pat Norton

James P. “Pat” Norton, 75, passed away on Tuesday, May 9, 2023, at Parkwest Medical Center in Knoxville. He was a native of Franklin, North Carolina, lived many years in Pueblo Colorado, and was a long-time resident of McMinn County.

He retired as General Manager of Western Sizzlin after 30 years and served in the United States Army.

He is preceded in death by his parents, James Patrick Norton, Jr. and Dorothy Brogden Norton. Brother, David P. Norton, and sister-in-law Anita Maddox Norton.  

James is survived by his wife of 30 years, April Wilson Norton. Daughter, Marta and husband Eric Bank of Monument, Colorado. Son, Brent and wife, Rhonda Knittel of Loudon, Tennessee. He is also survived by a sister, Judy Norton Colby and her husband, Ron of Englewood.  Two brothers; Kenneth W. and wife Kathy Norton of Athens, and Stephen Norton of Vernon, Arizona. He is additionally survived by grandchildren, Jack Schulz and Nick Schulz, and Matthew Knittel, great-grandchild, Aaron Knittel and many nieces and nephews.

The family will receive friends from 2:00-4:00 PM on Saturday, May 13, 2023, at Ziegler Funeral Home. A memorial service will follow at 4:00 PM with Reverend Garry King officiating.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital 501 St Jude Place Memphis, TN 38105.

If you are unable to attend the memorial service, you can sign the online registry at: www.zieglerfuneralhome.com

Ziegler Funeral Home has been entrusted with the care of James P. “Pat” Norton.