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James Norton Obituary
October 19, 1934 - May 14, 2025
Hilton Head Island, South Carolina - "That would be out in Brooklyn"
Jim Norton's favorite line was heard by many super senior tennis players on Hilton Head Island. He continued playing tennis into his 90s until health complications prevented it and eventually caused his death May 14, with his wife Juliet at his side.
James Donald Norton was born on Oct. 19, 1934, in Queens NY to Theresa Dawson. He attended Boys High School in Brooklyn and was a member of the track team where he won several medals. After graduating, he attended St. John's University where he joined the track team and continued to win medals. He graduated with a Bachelor of Arts Degree and later went on to obtain a Master's Degree. He was a member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity.
Upon graduation from St. John's, Jim held several government jobs. He was Director of Contract Compliance for the City of New York under Mayor John Lindsay and later worked with Mayor David Dinkins, with whom he also played tennis. Jim was an avid skier, frequenting ski resorts in New England and Europe.
He and Juliet Kennedy married in 1992. After several Hilton Head Island vacations, the Nortons bought a house in Hilton Head Plantation in 2000. And that started his HHI playing experience, sharing his unique personality on court and off.
Jim was an inveterate tennis player, joining USTA League teams that played year-round at several clubs, most recently at Spring Lake Racquet Club where he was a member. He and a variety of partners won area and state titles and competed in Southern Section championships. Also, Jim enjoyed simply watching tennis and offering quirky advice to players. One of his many treasured playing times was when he was picked anonymously at a Palmetto Dunes exhibition to play as a partner of Wimbledon and U.S. Open champion Stan Smith.
Besides his wife Juliet, Jim leaves a son, Michael Norton and daughter, Tiffany Sellers, both of New York. He was predeceased by a daughter, Hillarie.
Earlier this month, a group of his tennis friends lunched at Mangiamo's, their regular gathering place, and exchanged favorite Jim tales with Juliet and Tiffany. Jim's spirit remains in every lesson he shared and every laugh he inspired.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
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