Remembering Jim Norsworthy

Jim Norsworthy Small

It is with great sadness that Babe Ruth League bids farewell to our dear friend and teammate, James  (Jim) Howard Norsworthy, of Spring City, Pennsylvania, who passed away on November 14, 2023. 

Jim was a revered State Commissioner for Pennsylvania Babe Ruth Softball.  A member of the Babe Ruth League Middle Atlantic Region Hall of Fame, he was a tremendous ambassador for the sport.  His dedication and impact on the game of softball were immense, and he will be remembered for his passion, leadership, and the positive influence he had on children and on the community.

Jim was an alumnus of Upper Darby High School. He was a respected Quality Assurance Expert in the steel industry and a proud veteran of the U.S. Navy and U.S. Air Force with whom he served for 25 years. His sense of duty and commitment to his country mirrored his dedication to his loved ones. His patriotism was only matched by his love for Babe Ruth Softball, the smiles of children, movies, and music. He had a passion for playing the guitar and he could turn any occasion into a reason for singing and dancing.

Jim was a man who donned many hats, but the ones he wore as a loving husband, father, and grandfather were his favorites. His wife, Janice Ruth Norsworthy, was his partner in laughter and in life for 55 years. His children, James Michael Norsworthy and Laurie Anne Myers, were his pride and joy, and his grandsons, Andrew and Zachary Myers, were the apples of his eye. Jim also leaves behind his siblings Saranne Hale, Patsy Menig, Cletus Norsworthy, and Jack Norsworthy. He was preceded in death by his sister, Mary Louise Norsworthy, his father, James Earl Norsworthy, and his mother Saranne (Douthwaite) Norsworthy.

Jim was the embodiment of the words funny, selfless, and kind. His humor was a beacon of light, even in the most challenging times. He was the kind of person who would give you the shirt off his back, then crack a joke about how you now owe him a shirt. His laughter was infectious and booming, and his kindness was limitless.

Jim was an amazing and caring individual, one of those volunteers who stood head and shoulders above the rest.  Babe Ruth League is extremely fortunate to have had Jim Norsworthy a member of our team.  His memory and legacy will live on in all of us.