Jane Coltrane Norwood, age 85, passed away peacefully on January 14th at Friends Homes – Guilford after a long goodbye from Alzheimer’s disease.
Jane was the beloved wife of 62 years to Charles “Ron” Norwood and a devoted mother to three children: Chip (Ruthie) of Boone, NC; John (Nancy) of Ruffin, NC; and Melissa Lynn (Paul) Stephenson of Colorado Springs, CO and her sister by heart Doris Melson of Greensboro, NC. She was a cherished grandmother to eight grandchildren: Amy (Ashley) Norwood of Pensacola, FL; John Richard (Kristen) of Ruffin, NC; Lorrie (Matt) Ellington of Reidsville, NC; Rachel (Aaron) Kiel of Kannapolis, NC; Joshua (Rachelle) Stephenson of Colorado Springs, CO; Jessica (Matt) McCloskey of Canyon, TX; Jordan (Haley) Stephenson of Waxahachie, TX; and Jenah (Preston) Jameson of McKinney, TX. Her legacy extended further with the love she shared as great-grandmother to eleven great-grandchildren. Her life was defined by an unwavering commitment to her family, her faith, and her community.
A 1962 graduate of Guilford College, Jane served as Chairman of the Alumni Board and was instrumental in the Mary Hobbs Hall Restoration in which she had lived in as a student. She later earned a degree in Counseling from UNC-G and pursued additional graduate studies at UNC-Chapel Hill. During her nearly three-decade career at Rockingham Community College (1975–2002), she developed the Career Center and spearheaded career counseling programs across North Carolina’s community colleges. As a co-founder and sponsor of Phi Theta Kappa at RCC and counselor, Jane left a lasting mark on countless students’ lives.
Faith was Jane’s guiding light throughout her life. A devoted Quaker, she co-founded Rockingham Friends Meeting and remained a member at New Garden Friends Meeting. She lived out her values through service. Jane enjoyed working as a lifeguard at summer camps, teaching children to swim or play tennis at the YMCA or volunteering for Habitat for Humanity and the American Red Cross.
Jane’s life was a testament to the beauty found in simple pleasures and grand adventures alike. She found peace in the rhythmic embrace of ocean waves and joy in the freedom of swimming. Among one of her greatest joys was her enthusiasm for college basketball, a sport she followed with unwavering dedication. Whether cheering courtside or from the comfort of home, her love for the game brought her countless moments of happiness. A traveler at heart, Jane embraced the wonders of the world—from Greece, England, and Australia to countless states across America—finding magic in each destination.
In retirement, she started dancing — dancing with the Championship Senior Games Line Dancing group “The Mamas and the Papa,” as well as competing in state senior games in table tennis and swimming. She enjoyed quilting, gardening, and treasured time with loved ones.
Her warmth radiated quietly yet profoundly, leaving an enduring legacy etched into the hearts of all who knew her. Those touched by Jane’s presence will carry her kindness and adventurous spirit as they honor her memory.
A private burial is planned for a later date.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the RCC Retired Faculty Staff Scholarship, Friends Homes Guilford – Coltrane Scholarship or a charity of your choice.
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