Ralph W. Norman

Ralph “Sonny” Norman Jr, aged 87, passed away peacefully on September 22, 2025, surrounded by his family. Born and raised in the heart of Boston, Massachusetts, Sonny was the son of Ralph W. Norman, Sr. and Agnes C. Lantry Norman.

A proud son of Fields Corner in Dorchester, Sonny grew up in the forest of triple-deckers and tight-knit streets that shaped his grit, humor, and unwavering loyalty. He was the second-born son, a junior with a first-born spirit, and from an early age, he embodied the values of hard work, determination, and resilience.

After graduating from Charlestown High School, Ralph enlisted in the U.S. Army, serving with honor during the Berlin Crisis. His commitment to service continued after his active duty, through his time in the Inactive Ready Reserve.

Ralph built a life defined by dedication and integrity. He began his career with the Massachusetts Bay Transit Authority (MBTA), first as a bus driver, then a train operator, and ultimately as a Division 1 Delegate for the Boston Carmen’s Union, Local 589. He retired from the MBTA in 1986, only to begin a second chapter as a Norfolk County Sheriff. Even in his later years, Ralph remained active, working as a beloved school bus driver for First Student in Weymouth until his final retirement in 2018—marking over six decades of public service.

He was a proud member of the Weymouth Lodge of Elks and the Weymouth Eagles Aerie, where he found camaraderie and a sense of community.

Ralph was deeply devoted to his family and to the love of his life, the late Dorothy D. Gallivan Norman. He is survived by his children: Michael Norman and his wife Melissa of Rutland, VT; Tracy McLaughlin and her husband Jimmy of Sandwich, MA; and Mark Norman and his wife Emily of Pembroke, MA. He also leaves behind seven cherished grandchildren—Kelsey, John (Leigh), Hayley (Thomas), MaryKate, Liam, Patrick, and Brendan—and two beloved great-grandchildren, Russell and Dorothy.

Sonny was the last of a legendary brotherhood from Fields Corner in Dorchester, which included his siblings Alfred and Paul, and lifelong friends like the Van Tassell brothers, Mattie Hapnie, John Kerrigan, Paulie Sparkle, and Crabs Callahan. Together, they formed a bond that defied time and distance—always showing up for one another through life’s highs and lows. Imagine that corner, filled with laughter, loyalty, and stories that could fill volumes.

Ralph was a self-made man whose life was a testament to determination, perseverance, and love for family and friends. He will be remembered for his strength, quick wit, funny stories, and the way he made everyone feel like family.

Family and friends a respectfully invited to visiting hours on Sunday, September 28th, from 3 - 6 PM at the C.C. Shepherd Funeral Home, 134 Pleasant St. (Columbian Sq.) in S. Weymouth. The following day, Monday, September 29th, family and friends are invited to briefly gather at 9AM to form a procession to St. Albert the Great Parish, 1140 Washington St, Weymouth, MA for a funeral Mass at 10 AM. Burial to follow at Blue Hill Cemetery in Braintree. 

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Ralph’s memory to the South Shore VNA Hospice & Palliative Care by clicking the link below and clicking on Donate at the top of the screen.

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