Bullitt County, KY, July 23, 2025
News Summary
James Norman Weaver, a beloved basketball coach and educator in Bullitt County, Kentucky, passed away after a brave battle with cancer. He was renowned for his contributions to the local community and had a significant impact on many lives throughout his career in sports and education. Weaver’s legacy includes numerous accolades for his athletic achievements and a successful coaching career. He is survived by his family and countless friends who will remember his spirit and dedication.
Bullitt County, KY
James Norman “Big Norm” Weaver, aged 79, passed away peacefully at his home in Bullitt County, Kentucky, on July 18, 2025, after a courageous battle with cancer. Weaver was a celebrated figure in the community, known for his long-standing career in basketball coaching, education, and family contributions.
Born on October 30, 1945, in Bowling Green, Kentucky, Weaver was the middle child of Marion Dean Weaver and Olon Weaver. He grew up in the Settle community of Allen County, where he was raised alongside two brothers, instilling in him strong family values grounded in hard work and community spirit.
Weaver’s childhood was marked by significant connections to his family’s grocery store, the Weaver Country Store, which doubled as a post office, mechanic shop, and social hub for the community. This vibrant environment fostered his interests in sports, music, and storytelling, shaping the man he would become.
As a young athlete, Weaver made a name for himself in basketball, emerging as a star player at Allen County High School. Under the guidance of coach Jimmy Bazzell, he led the Patriots to a semifinal appearance in the 1964 KHSAA Sweet 16 tournament. His impressive skills on the court caught the eye of University of Kentucky Coach Adolph Rupp, who signed him as a player post-high school. Later, Weaver transferred to Western Kentucky University, where he contributed substantially to the team ranked among the nation’s top ten.
Throughout his basketball career, Weaver earned several accolades, including:
- Southern Kentucky Player of the Year (1964)
- All-District and All-Region selections (1963, 1964)
- All-State and All-State Tournament honors (1964)
- Selections to both East-West and Kentucky-Indiana All-Star teams
As a testament to his skill, all three of his high school teams won the Fifth Regional Championship, and his 1967 WKU squad achieved a national ranking as high as #3. Weaver frequently reflected fondly on his athletic experiences and cherished his friendships with teammates.
Upon graduating from WKU, Weaver transitioned into a fulfilling career as a coach and educator. He taught and coached at several schools, including Alvaton, Dawson Springs, Bullitt Central, Crittenden County, Edmonson County, and Butler County. Renowned for his enthusiasm and integrity, Weaver was a significant mentor to many of his players. Later in his career, he moved into administration, serving as assistant principal, principal, and ultimately, Superintendent of Allen County Schools, where he earned respect for his dedication to students.
After retiring, Weaver continued to enjoy quality time with his family and friends. His leisure activities included camping, boating, and attending sports events. He is survived by his wife, Angela Harman Weaver; son, James Shannon (Mindy) Weaver; brother, Murl (Trudy) Weaver; granddaughters, Layne (Logan) Johnson and Avery Weaver; grandson, James Gray Weaver; great-granddaughter, Kennedy Ann Marie Johnson; sister-in-law, Rebecca (Cletus) Donaldson; along with numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
Visitation for James Norman Weaver is scheduled for Wednesday, July 23, 2025, from 3:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the T. W. Crow & Son Funeral Home, with additional hours on Thursday from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. His funeral service will take place at the same location on Thursday, July 24, 2025, at 11:00 a.m., followed by burial in Crescent Hill Cemetery. In honor of Weaver’s legacy, donations may be made to the Kentucky Humane Society in lieu of flowers.
FAQ
Who was James Norman “Big Norm” Weaver?
James Norman “Big Norm” Weaver was a renowned basketball player and coach, educator, and community leader in Bullitt County, KY.
What were some of his notable achievements in basketball?
Weaver earned numerous accolades, including Southern Kentucky Player of the Year (1964), All-State selections, and played a key role in helping his high school teams achieve championship victories.
What role did he play in education?
After graduating, Weaver taught and coached at several schools and held administrative positions, including Superintendent of Allen County Schools, known for his dedication to students and integrity.
When is his funeral service?
The funeral service for James Norman Weaver is scheduled for Thursday, July 24, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at the T. W. Crow & Son Funeral Home.
Key Features of James Norman Weaver’s Legacy
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | October 30, 1945 |
| Date of Passing | July 18, 2025 |
| Education | Graduated from Western Kentucky University |
| Coaching Career | Taught and coached at multiple schools, served as Superintendent |
| Notable Accolades | Southern KY Player of the Year, All-State selections |
| Funeral Service | July 24, 2025, at T. W. Crow & Son Funeral Home |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
New Leadership Appointments in Bowling Green Schools
Remembering James Norman ‘Big Norm’ Weaver
Additional Resources
- WCLURadio: James Norman “Big Norm” Weaver
- Wikipedia: Basketball Coach
- WCLURadio: Tribute to Big Norm Weaver
- Google Search: James Norman Weaver
- WCLURadio: Community Response to Weaver’s Passing
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Basketball
- WCLURadio: James Weaver’s Legacy
- Google News: James Norman Weaver
Author: STAFF HERE BOWLING GREEN WRITER
The BOWLING GREEN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBowlingGreen.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Bowling Green, Warren County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the National Corvette Homecoming, International Festival, concerts at SKyPAC, and sports events at Beech Bend Park. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce and the African American Museum Bowling Green Area, plus leading businesses in automotive, apparel, and healthcare that power the local economy such as General Motors Corvette Assembly Plant, Fruit of the Loom, and Med Center Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERELexingtonKY.com and HERELouisville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Kentucky's dynamic landscape.
