Norman Leigh Catlett

The staff at Heishman Funeral Home Inc. sends condolences to the family of Norman Leigh Catlett. Norman Leigh Catlett, 89, of Woodstock, Virginia, died Friday, April 1, 2022. He was born December 21, 1932, in Hamlet, NC, the youngest of four children of Winnie Davis Whittington & Jesse Warren Catlett. Norman followed his dream and was a teacher and coach for 40 years, including positions at Fork Union Military Academy, Massanutten Military Academy, and Central High School in Woodstock. He taught history, civics, and physical education, while coaching basketball, baseball, football, and tennis. His teams enjoyed many successes, including multiple state championships. Norman touched the lives of countless people, whether it was the offering of warmth and compassion to random strangers, the steady mentoring of students, or the unconditional love and support of family and friends. A positive role model, Norman led by example, modeling his own thoughtful, understated advice. In this regard, Norman was a paragon of humility. He treated everyone in his orbit with dignity and respect, offering kindness without judgment, regardless of one's station in life. Having a soft spot in his heart for the underdog, no student was cast off or forgotten as undeserving under his tutelage and each was supported with a mix of love and discipline. Taking on his personality, Norman's athletic teams were known for teamwork, preparedness, love for one another, and sacrifice for the greater good. As much as any attribute, Norman was steadfastly dependable. You could count on him to be there when needed. Always, without exception. This will never change. Norman remains in our hearts forever. Norman is survived by his wife of 67 years, Mary Blue Cameron Catlett, and three sons: Norman Leigh Catlett, Jr. (Mary), Warren Cameron Catlett and Richard Shelton Catlett (Susan). He is also survived by grandsons Jake Johnson and John Shelton Catlett (Mollie), granddaughter Anna Blue Catlett, and great granddaughter Margo Blue Catlett. He was predeceased by brother James Levi Catlett and sisters Jessie Mae Catlett McLaurin and Virginia Catlett Covington Foy. Norman retired in 1997 and enjoyed traveling and spending time in Myrtle Beach with his family. He loved living in Woodstock and was actively involved in church, school, and community activities for more than 58 years. There will be a private family funeral service with a celebration of life to be announced at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to The Woodstock Rotary Foundation (Scholarship Fund), RE: Norman Catlett, PO Box 602, Woodstock, Virginia, 22664-0602, Emmanuel Episcopal Church, 122 East Court St., Woodstock VA 22664, or the charity of your choice.

Norman Leigh Catlett

December 21, 1932 - April 1, 2022