Norman A. Thomas

Norman Thomas Obituary Norman A. Thomas -- February 22, 1940 - September 21, 2019 Norman Avery Thomas was born February 22, 1940 in Lake Lure, North Carolina to the late Samuel A. and Ina Mae Thomas (Logan). He was the third of seven children born of this union, that also included Anthony, Grover, Myrna "Nettie", Herschel, Gary and Stephanie. The Thomas family moved to Cleveland, Ohio in 1949. Norman would attend Cleveland Public Schools. He would go on to graduate from Glenville High School in 1959. He would forever remain a "Proud & Faithful Tarblooder". Norman accepted Christ as his savior as a child and was baptized at Mt. Nebo Baptist Church in Lake Lure, North Carolina. Norman married Roye Kelly in 1965, and to this union 2 children were born, Laurel Kelly and Ryan Norman. A talented artist, Norman would attend Cooper School of Art. He would continue to engage his creative talents through painting, drawing, and his vast collection of works of art. Norman began his career at Central National Bank, as a Graphics Design Artist. Possessing a strong creative & entrepreneurial spirit Norman and close friends Ernest Jones and the late William "Billy" Hicks would establish RAN Associates in 1970 in Cleveland, Ohio. RAN was the first Black owned employment services company in the State of Ohio. Norman was a proud Clevelander and through RAN sought to contribute to the community. RAN would go on to be recognized for its outstanding service by the city of Cleveland, the local business community, and the State of Ohio. RAN would serve as a conduit for finding employment in Greater Cleveland for minorities and women for nearly 50 years. Ever true to his creative and adventurous spirit, Norman enjoyed travel, art, gardening and the company of friends and family throughout his life. Possessing a fun-loving nature, Norman enjoyed planning and actively participating in events including annual Christmas parties and Glenville Alumni events and reunions. His generous nature sought to ensure that everyone always had a great time. Though outgoing, Norman was private about his illness and sought to battle his cancer privately, a wish his family was determined to respect. Norman is survived by two children, Laurel Steele (Cedric) and Ryan Thomas (Yasmine); six grandchildren, Aaron, Joseph and Benjamin Steele, Isabella, Elijah, and Gabriel Thomas. His brothers Grover (Janice) and Herschel Thomas, and sister Stephanie Thomas. A host of nieces, nephews, grand nieces and nephews, cousins, and friends near and far. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Norman A. Thomas, please visit our floral store. Read More