News Summary
James Norman ‘Big Norm’ Weaver, a prominent athlete, coach, and community leader from Bullitt County, KY, passed away peacefully at the age of 79. Known for his exceptional contributions to sports and education, Weaver’s legacy includes his remarkable athletic achievements and his dedication to coaching and mentoring students. His beloved family, friends, and community are mourning his loss as they prepare to honor his memory with visitation and funeral arrangements.
Bullitt County, KY – James Norman “Big Norm” Weaver, a celebrated athlete, coach, and beloved community leader, passed away peacefully in his home on July 18, 2025, after a courageous battle with cancer. He was 79 years old.
Born on October 30, 1945, in Bowling Green, KY, Weaver was the son of Marion Dean Weaver and Olon Weaver. He grew up in the Settle community of Allen County, KY, where he became the middle child of three boys. Weaver was predeceased by his brother, Don Weaver, and nephew, Donald Warren Weaver.
Throughout his upbringing, the values of farming, family, and community were pivotal in shaping his character. The Weaver Country Store, which his family owned, served as a grocery store, post office, mechanic shop, and gathering place for the locals. It was in this environment that Norm nurtured his passions for hunting, music, humor, storytelling, and sports.
Athletic Achievement
Norm Weaver’s athletic talent was evident from an early age, particularly in basketball. He became a standout player at Allen County High School under the coaching of Jimmy Bazzell, leading the Patriots to reach the semifinals of the 1964 KHSAA Sweet 16. His remarkable performance caught the attention of the University of Kentucky’s famed coach, Adolph Rupp.
Although Weaver initially signed with the University of Kentucky, he later transferred to Western Kentucky University (WKU), where he continued to make his mark in college basketball. He was part of a nation-renowned top 10 WKU team, considered one of the greatest in Kentucky’s history. His accolades included being named Southern Kentucky Player of the Year in 1964, along with multiple All-District, All-Region, and All-State honors. Weaver’s high school teams also won three Fifth Regional Championships, and his WKU team achieved a national ranking as high as #3.
Coaching and Leadership
After graduating from WKU, Norm Weaver dedicated his life to education and coaching. Throughout his career, he worked in various educational institutions, including Alvaton, Dawson Springs, Bullitt Central, Crittenden County, Edmonson County, and Butler County. Weaver was known for his enthusiasm, passion, and integrity while coaching, often forming close relationships with his players.
Weaver later transitioned into administrative roles, serving as assistant principal at Butler County, principal at Whitley and Green Counties, and ultimately as the Superintendent of Allen County Schools. His leadership was marked by intelligence, wit, and a profound commitment to his students.
Personal Life
In retirement, Norm Weaver shifted his focus to family and personal interests. He created treasured memories with his wife, Angela Harman Weaver, and their children, engaging in activities such as camping, boating, visiting water parks, and attending ballgames. Norm is survived by his son, James Shannon (Mindy) Weaver of Louisville, KY, along with his brother, Murl (Trudy) Weaver from St. Petersburg, FL. He also leaves behind three grandchildren: Layne (Logan) Johnson, Avery Weaver, and James Gray Weaver, as well as a great-granddaughter, Kennedy Ann Marie Johnson.
Final Arrangements
The community is invited to pay their respects during the visitation scheduled for July 23, 2025, from 3:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at T. W. Crow & Son Funeral Home, and on July 24, 2025, from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. A funeral service will follow on July 24 at 11:00 a.m. at the same location, with burial taking place at Crescent Hill Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Kentucky Humane Society in honor of Norm Weaver’s legacy.
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Additional Resources
- Beechtree News: James Norman Weaver
- Legacy: Vernon Tabor Obituary
- Legacy: Everett Boyer Obituary
- Wikipedia: Kentucky High School Athletic Association
- New York Times: Weddings – Suzanne Weaver & Stephen James
- Google Search: James Norman Weaver
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