January 15, 2026, 89, Goldsboro – Norman Elissimer Herring Jr., age 89, passed away peacefully on January 15, 2026, in Goldsboro, North Carolina. Born on July 12, 1936, in Wayne County, North Carolina, Norman lived a life defined by dedication to his family, his work, and his community.
Norman was a proud graduate of Pikeville High School and later served his country in the United States Army as a Specialist. After his service, he built a long and successful career with Laughlin-Sutton Construction Company, where his leadership, integrity, and hard work earned him the respect of colleagues and eventually led to his role as a Vice President prior to retirement.
To those who knew him best, Norman was much more than his accomplishments. He was a devoted father, a loving grandfather, and a man whose generosity, kindness, and sense of humor left a lasting impression on everyone he met. His children and grandchildren were truly the light of his life, and some of his happiest moments were spent watching them grow, laugh, and succeed.
Norman found joy in life’s simple pleasures. He loved spending time fishing and could always be counted on to settle in for a good NASCAR race, cheering on his favorites and sharing stories along the way. These quiet moments brought him great happiness and peace.
The family will receive friends on Tuesday, January 27, 2026 from 12:00 -1:00 p.m. at Seymour Funeral Home followed by a service to celebrate Norman’s life at 1:00 p.m. in the chapel. Interment will be at 2:00 p.m. in the Eastern Carolina State Veterans Cemetery.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Norman Elissimer Herring Sr. and Mabel Louise Herring; his wife, Geraldine Herring; and his brothers, John Herring Sr. and Francis Herring.
Norman is survived by his son, Norman Chad Herring of Goldsboro, North Carolina; his daughter, Melissa Herring Burchell and husband Joseph Michael Burchell of Heath, Texas; and four beloved grandchildren, Grayson Michael Burchell and Weston Durham Burchell, both of Heath, Texas; Brett Joseph Burchell and wife Spirit Elizabeth-Renee Burchell of McKinney, Texas; and Jasmine Natalie Burchell of Allen, Texas, a student at the University of Texas at Austin.
Norman will be remembered for his steady presence, his warm heart, and the love he gave so freely to his family and friends. His legacy lives on in the lives of those he loved most.
