James H. "Jim" Norton

James H. “Jim” Norton, 65, of Hooksett, NH, passed away at home on August 21, 2025. Born in Manchester on February 28, 1960, he was a son of the late Robert and Agnes (Leslie) Norton. He shared 46 wonderful years of marriage with his wife, Debra Norton.

Jim was raised in Hooksett and was a 1978 graduate of Central High School. After graduation, he enlisted in the United States Air Force, proudly serving his country for six years. He earned an Associate’s Degree from Southern New Hampshire University. Jim worked as a mechanical engineer for Data-Mate for many years and was also previously employed at Northern Tool and Home Depot.

Jim spent countless seasons on the ballfield, coaching Little League and baseball teams for his sons, his grandchildren, and just about every neighborhood kid who picked up a glove. He was admired by generations of players, not only for teaching the game but for the way he made everyone feel like part of the team. Off the field, Jim loved camping adventures, backyard BBQs, and ringing in the New Year with a full house of family and friends. In his younger years, he was always up for a night of line dancing, and he never missed a chance to show off one of his favorite Hawaiian shirts. More than anything, Jim enjoyed time spent creating memories with his loved ones.

Jim is survived by his wife, Debra Norton of Hooksett; his sons, Brian Norton and his wife Amy of Concord, Eric Norton and his wife Ali of Nashua, and Justin Norton of Manchester; his sisters, Sandra Gorski of Telford, PA and Nancy Hall of Dunbarton; his grandchildren, Brendin and Ian Norton and Crystal and Amber Federico; as well as several grand-dogs, nieces, nephews, extended family members and friends. In addition to his parents, Jim was predeceased by his brother, Robert L. Norton, and his brother-in-law, Richard Gorski.

A Celebration of Jim’s Life will be held on Thursday, August 28th at Phaneuf Funeral Homes & Crematorium, 243 Hanover Street, Manchester, NH. A Memorial Gathering will be held from 5PM-6PM with a Memorial Service at 6PM. Family and friends are invited to attend. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation in Jim’s memory to St. Jude Children's Hospital.