Richard L. Norwood Sr

Richard L. Norwood, affectionately known as "Dooley" and “PopPop,” passed away peacefully on September 4, 2026, at the age of 68. Mr. Norwood was born on June 27, 1958, in Millsboro, Delaware, to the late Frederick Norwood and Mildred E. Hitchens. He was a proud graduate of Sussex Central High School, Class of 1976. Shortly after graduation, Mr. Norwood enlisted in the United States Army, beginning a long and honorable life of service to his country. He proudly served 10 years of active duty from 1976 to 1986, followed by thirteen years in the National Guard. He retired from the Army in 1998. Following his military service, Mr. Norwood continued his commitment to serving others. He began a career as a correctional officer with Sussex Correctional Institution. He dedicated 25 years to the institution, serving from 1988 until his retirement in 2013. Mr. Norwood took immense pride in his work and was respected for his dedication, strength, and integrity. He loved the sport of wrestling and coached at Sussex Technical High School for many years, touching the lives of many young men cultivating their skills and serving as a mentor. Mr. Norwood was also a proud member of the Prince Hall Masonic family, belonging to Rising Sun/Prince Hall Lodge #4 of Milton, Delaware. Outside of his professional life, Mr. Norwood found boundless joy in the simple things that mattered most. He was an avid camper and enjoyed all things camping, especially the opportunity to spend time outdoors with the people he loved. He was, without a doubt, the best “PopPop.” He never missed an opportunity to show up for his grandchildren—whether it was a school field trip, a sporting event, or one of life's many special moments. His presence was a constant source of love, encouragement, and pride. The memories he created with his grandchildren and family will be treasured for generations to come. Mr. Norwood was the kind of man who led by example. He was always willing to offer good advice, lend a helping hand, and share the wisdom he had gained throughout his life. His children and grandchildren looked up to him not only for guidance, but for an example of what it meant to work hard, serve others, love deeply, and remain strong through life's challenges. Mr. Norwood was preceded in death by his daughter, Hynita Norwood; his brothers, Frederick Norwood, Jr., and Kevin D. Norwood; and his sister, Surprenia Norwood. He leaves to cherish his memories, his loving wife of 39 years, Velma (Elliott) Norwood; his five children: Selena Henry (Jonathan), Dino Rodriguez (Sara), Richard L. Norwood II, Barbara O'Neil, and Kishia Smith (Terry); nine grandchildren: Mya Richards (Bryan), Jonathan Henry, Kyler Rodriguez, LaShawn Handy, Jaylya Eley, Kennedy Smith, Eric McCarty, Janis McCarty, and Leroy McCarty; five siblings: Vanessa Rickards, Selena Ross, William Norwood (Conda), Eldred Norwood, and Montoya Palmer (Robert); a special niece whom he adored, Inez Mahammitt; two aunts, Janice Davis and Leolga Wright (Dallas); and numerous great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends. Mr. Norwood’s legacy will live on through the many lives he touched. His love, wisdom, strength, humor, dedication, and unwavering devotion to his family will never be forgotten. Though he will be deeply missed, his family finds comfort in knowing that the lessons he taught, the memories he created, and the love he gave will continue to live on through those who knew and loved him. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Friendship United Methodist Church at 30983 Friendship Road, Millsboro, DE 19966.