Pettis Burch Norman, a Johnson C. Smith University (JCSU) legend and native of Lincolnton, Georgia, passed away at his home in Dallas on July 7, 2025, at the age of 86. Norman was a pioneering figure, not only as one of the first JCSU Golden Bulls to reach the National Football League (NFL) but also as a vocal champion for civil rights and a promoter of financial literacy within minority communities.
Born on January 4, 1939, Pettis was the youngest of ten children raised in a family of sharecroppers. He broke barriers by becoming the first college graduate in his family, earning a degree in physical education from JCSU in 1962.
Following the death of his father, Norman's family relocated to Charlotte, North Carolina, where he attended West Charlotte High School. His athletic prowess quickly became evident. Initially, Norman considered joining the Air Force, but a football scholarship from JCSU, a historically Black university, changed the trajectory of his life.
At JCSU, Norman excelled as a multi-sport athlete, earning All-CIAA honors in football while also making significant contributions in track and baseball.
College Achievements and HBCU Impact
Norman's time at Johnson C. Smith University was marked by several significant achievements:
- All-CIAA Honors: He was a two-time all-conference selection, demonstrating his dominance on the football field.
- Multi-Sport Athlete: Beyond football, Norman showcased his athleticism in baseball and track and field, further solidifying his reputation as a well-rounded athlete.
- Trailblazer: Norman's entry into the NFL marked a historic moment for JCSU, paving the way for future Golden Bulls and other HBCU athletes to pursue their professional football dreams.
NFL Career
Dallas Cowboys
After being overlooked in the NFL Draft, Norman joined the Dallas Cowboys as an undrafted free agent in 1962. He quickly proved his worth, earning a starting role and showcasing his versatility by playing both split end and tight end. He became known for his exceptional blocking skills and reliability as a receiver.
During his nine seasons with the Cowboys, Norman amassed 124 receptions for 1,672 yards and 14 touchdowns. He was an integral part of the team's success, playing in two NFL Championship games and starting in Super Bowl V.
San Diego Chargers
The respect that Dallas head coach Tom Landry held for Norman was evident when, upon learning of Norman's trade to the San Diego Chargers in 1971, Landry personally visited him at his banking job to deliver the news.
Norman continued his career with the Chargers, contributing as a starter for three seasons before a knee condition forced his retirement. By the end of his NFL career, he had recorded 183 receptions, 2,492 yards, and 15 touchdowns across 162 games.
Civil Rights Advocacy and Business Leadership
Norman's influence extended far beyond the football field. During the turbulent 1960s, he emerged as a prominent civil rights advocate in Dallas, actively working to desegregate team facilities and community spaces.
One notable achievement was persuading Cowboys coach Tom Landry to end racially segregated hotel room assignments, a pivotal step towards fostering equality within professional sports.
Following his football career, Norman transitioned into the business world, becoming one of Dallas's first Black banking executives. He further demonstrated his commitment to community development by founding the Dallas Together Forum, an initiative dedicated to promoting minority hiring and securing contracts for women- and minority-owned businesses.
Honors and Legacy
Norman's contributions have been recognized through numerous accolades:
- CIAA Hall of Fame: He was inducted into the CIAA Hall of Fame in 1977 in recognition of his outstanding collegiate achievements.
- Pettis Norman Award: An award bearing his name is presented annually to the most outstanding male and female athletes at JCSU, ensuring his legacy continues to inspire future generations.
- Autobiography: Norman shared his remarkable life story in his autobiography, "The Pettis Norman Story: A Journey through the Cotton Fields to the Super Bowl and into Servant Leadership," chronicling his journey from rural Georgia to NFL stardom and his unwavering commitment to community leadership.
Death and Remembrance
Pettis Norman's life stands as a powerful testament to the transformative potential of perseverance, the importance of leadership, and the enduring impact of HBCU athletes on American sports and society. His legacy will continue to inspire athletes, activists, and community leaders for years to come. He exemplified how success on the field can be translated into meaningful change off the field, leaving an indelible mark on the world around him. His dedication to both athletic excellence and social justice serves as a model for future generations striving to make a difference.
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