James Norman Swartz 1/28/63 – 8/13/20 passed away on Wednesday, August 13, 2020 at his residence in Mt. Sterling, KY after a long illness.  He grew up Frenchburg, Kentucky.  In his earlier years, Norman played Semi-Professional softball, sponsored by Riverside Paving of Louisville.  He retired as a Construction Supervisor for Delta Gas in Winchester, KY in 2016 .  He soon discovered that he wasn't quite ready for retirement, so he returned to work with his family at Swartz Pipeline Contracting, also in Mt. Sterling, KY.

Norman was known by his friends as a "gentle giant" who always found the good in every person he met.  At almost 7 feet tall, he was big in stature, but kind in spirit.  In 2005 , he met the woman he cherished and with whom he would complete his earthly journey, Tammy Lawson.  They were married in 2007 .  Together, they were devoted members of Living Water Church.  Norman was known as a fantastic cook and loved to coordinate large events for his church – sometimes cooking for as many as 1500 people.  Along with spending time with his family, cooking for others was one of his greatest joys!

Norman was a revered husband, father, grandfather, brother and cousin.  He was predeceased by his father, Sam.  Norman is survived by his devoted wife of 13 years, Tammy; his mother, Mary Jo; his brother Tim (Lana);his sister Debbie(Jerry);  his children Ryan Vanderpool (Amanda) and Josh Vanderpool (Maci); and three grandchildren Savannah, Tripp and Montgomery.  He is also survived by cousins Neal, Kyle, Mike, Mark, Cary and Rocky Swartz.

Funeral services will be held 1 PM, Saturday, August 15, 2020 at Taul Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Grant Cannoy and Rev. John Duggins officiating, burial following at Gibbs Cemetery.  Visitation will be held, 11 AM-1 PM, Saturday, August 15, 2020 at Taul Funeral Home Chapel.  Pallbearers will be Ryan Vanderpool, Josh Vanderpool, Sam Wells, Toby Wells, TJ Lawson and Drew Swartz.  Honorary Pallbearers will be Bill Hobbs, Nelson Jefferson, Tom Horsley and Bill Smallwood. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Living Water Youth Ministry, PO Box 538, Mt. Sterling, KY 40353.

Until we meet again, Norman.  Well done, good and faithful servant!