Family, Friends & Fellow Officers Remember...

Well boy it is only 16 days away from that awful date, and it feels so strange. I swear I have aged another 40 years since that day, and every second is engraved into my mind , from Gina calling asking if you were on duty and telling me someone was down in the Second. To Kenny confirming it was you and it was bad. To me running Jess down before she heard it on the news while she was showing off her engagement ring. Pulling Jess over in my unit and telling her that Caw Caw would take your truck home, that we needed to get to the hospital, hoping it was not that bad. Running with lights and sirens, but feeling as if we were standing still and that Jess's and your future was slipping away. Seeing the doctors work so hard on you, asking God to just give you a chance and even trying to strike a deal with him where he could take me if you could just survive this. Watching Jess crumble and knowing there was nothing I could do to change it or stop her pain. Just moments before the world took that terrible turn, Beth and I were discussing about talking with you and Jess that evening on setting a firm date for the wedding and start looking for churches and the like. I even joked with Beth that you and Jess would not wait a year like Mat and Tara to have a baby. but you two would still put me in the poor house with the wedding. Never in my life would I believe something as simple as a ring of a phone could change the lives of so many and impact so much.

What helps me through those dark moments I have or when the hate builds up so great in regards to the individual that took your life or the ones that called without giving warning that an individual was armed and lead to you being ambushed which resulted in you losing your life. I remember you standing in the front door way of the house with that nervous look on your face on Jul 4th. Knowing what you wanted to ask after only seeing your face for a second, guess I should have let you off the hook earlier instead of making you sweat and actually having to ask, but it was the right of passage in getting married. The smile on your face when I dropped my guard and cranked a smile, but the pride was to great to hold a straight face knowing that you two were going to be a great couple. You and Jess grinning like crazy that morning of the 4th when you two came back to tell her mom and discussing basic stuff. The fact that you did not want to take away from Ambers Graduation, the birth of Lil Mat speaks volume of how thoughtful you are. I was so happy for you two if you would have told me that you guys want to be married that day, I would figure out away to make it happen. There are thousand more that we have with you, which helps with the pain.

Josh your name is still on everyone's lips, in everyday conversation. I was on a trip and even a woman from Kansas City had heard about you. She notice my ID when checking in on a flight in North Carolina and just happen to be seated next to each other on the plane. In our conversation on the dangers of police work she asked if I had knew you since she saw the clip on u tube about you. I told her yes I was privileged to know you from a young boy, to the great man you had came to be. That you loved your job and was going to do great things, focused on the future, had a deep concern for those that asked for help and someone that fathers prayer that their daughters would marry. Boy you overcame hurdles in life that would knock most down or make them give up trying and you did it with your head high, a big smile, and a open heart. When you lived at the house I got a chance to see how strong that little scrawny kid was and dedicated to making it in life regardless what would be thrown at him. I'm proud of you son and if God would have blessed me with a son, I would want him to be a mirror image of you. Visit you on Thursdays and see new stuff every week, still the social butterfly my boy. I will celebrate your life this Jul 5th, and remember you as that young boy running around with Will and Mickey, always with a smile and the times you were at the house and the happiness you gave to Jess while you two were together. Take care boy and be good.

June 19, 2008

Well Boy
You name sake nephew Josh E Norris sleep over the house, amazing that you passed the trait that makes all the women in my house making over you to him. I swear Beth, Jess and Amber was nearly fighting over the little guy. Lil guy was wide awake, guess he did not get that from you, just kidding. Jess and Amber had to take team the feeding last night. Well son life looks a little brighter, just wish you were here to take in all that is going on. Take care son and hopefully we will met again at the end of my time, watch over everyone and leave some good words with God about me, always can use the help

June 6, 2008

Miss you down here...

Detective Frank Renaudin
Jefferson Parish Sheriff's Office

June 3, 2008

JOSH,

I STOP BY HERE FROM TIME TO TIME JUST TO VIEW PEOPLE'S REFLECTIONS OF YOU. GUESS IT'S MY WAY OF SAYING HI AND REMEMBERING YOU AS WELL. TODAY IS MEMORIAL DAY AND I FIGURED I WOULD STOP AND WRITE SOMETHING SINCE IT IS A SPECIAL DAY. TODAY IS MEMORIAL DAY, THE DAY WE STOP IF ONLY FOR A MOMENT TO REMEMBER PEOPLE JUST LIKE YOU....HEROES!!! IT AMAZES ME HOW OFTEN YOUR NAME COMES UP WHEN SPEAKING WITH PEOPLE AROUND THE DEPARTMENT. EVERYTIME YOUR NAME COMES UP I CAN'T HELP BUT TO SMILE AND FEEL PROUD FOR KNOWING YOU IF ONLY FOR A SMALL TIME IN LIFE. MANY OF THE PEOPLE WHO HAVE KNOWN YOU IN SOME WAY HAVE PROMISED YOU WILL NEVER BE FORGOTTEN AND JOSH THAT PROMISE HAS STOOD STRONG. JOSH YOU CAN'T IMAGINE THE PEOPLE YOU HAVE TOUCHED...TRUELY A LIL GUY WITH A BIG IMPACT. ANYWAYS JOSH I'LL STOP WITH A THE MUSHY STUFF I FIGURE ENOUGH OF THAT HAS BEEN SAID ALREADY. JUST WANTED YOU TO KNOW WE KEEP FIGHTING THE GOOD FIGHT DOWN HERE. JOSH TODAY IS YOUR DAY, SO STAND UP, SQUARE YOUR SHOULDERS FROM THAT PLACE UP HIGH, AND STAND PROUD LIL BROTHER. YOU WILL NEVER BE FORGOTTEN!!!

Deputy Mark Monson
JPSO Third District

May 26, 2008

Deputy Norris your work on this Earth as we know it is done. You are in God's Hands now brother. May you rest in peace

SGT. Daryl Brewer
Clarksville Police Dept. Clarksville, Tennessee

May 26, 2008

Hey Boy

Just got back from the Memorial in DC, very impressive to say the least. The may times I went to DC for work never knew it was there. the whole gang went from Jess, Beth , Amber and I, but also Caw Caw,Nana and Sid. Jess bought Adam's Joshua some stuff and you know Jess she felt since Adam could not make it, she bought him and Lindsey , along with Will and Mickey some shirts with your name on it. You know Jess like to stay in the shadows, so she want to be in the crowd during the ceremony, which also provided her the opportunity to call Adam on the phone when you name was called, so he was still part of it. Memorial's rip a hole in the heart every time I attend. The Friday prior to us leaving for DC, went with Jess and Adam to the Lake Lawn Memorial for you and other LA deputies. Robin's new Josh was there, and your nephew is a big boy and probably in a short time out weight you, Adam's Josh looks like a mix between his Mom and Dad. You would be happy in Adam, he trying so hard to make you proud and wants to be the best Dad, also you can see the worry in Lindsey Face in being a Mom. Went to the house to visit and told both of them not to worry, babies come with no instructions, but as long as you give your heart and soul to them, and be there for them they will come out great. Also Adam and Lindsey have been a great help to Jess, from my understanding she will be you name sakes Godmother . Both boys have some shoes to fill, but they are named after a very good man. Like I told you when you asked to marry Jess, would be proud to call you son, which has not changed. Hard to believe we are closing in on a year. Time does not make the lose go away or the ripple effect it had. Watch over everyone Josh for me, since in my heart I feel I failed you and Jess.

May 23, 2008

I knew Josh from East Jefferson Highschool. We were in R.O.T.C. together, and I always thought of him to be a wonderfully, delightful person. He was the "little guy" with the great big heart. I'll always remember his warm nature and sweet charm. I leave this message in memorial for him as it is National Police Week, and I know that I will always remember him, and I send my condolences to the family and friends.

Gina Dimas-Wood

May 19, 2008

I was fortunate enough to meet one of your brothers this week in DC at Police Week. We were all waiting in a very long line in the Host hotel to purchase various items. I noticed he had a small LSP toy car in his hand and we started to talk. He just beamed when he spoke about you and was so proud that you were his brother. We were up there honoring one of our own also! I even think that your family sat next to our widow and other fellow officer during the Memorial Service. May you rest in peace and keep looking over the rest of us in our daily journey of Law Enforcement. Our thoughts and prayers continue to be with you and your family!

Sgt. Kathy Pittman
Calcasieu Parish Sheriff's Office

May 16, 2008

Well son , Beth and I went by to visit you on Sat between the rain showers. Have made all the arrangements for May to hear your name in DC, kind of ironic since we had scheduled a trip to DC last Jul that all of us would go on and be the first for you in vacations taken with the family. I know you were excited when I need you SSN to do the white house visit. Not much going on and Beth I was talking and realize that we both look at each new day and compare it to what you were doing or where you were at each day since Jul 5th. Figure need to push thru the pass and focus on the future, but feels like the future was stolen from you and Jess. Went out in the boats, doing some crossing training with LASER, go ahead make jokes, Kenny and Gina already did. Got the driveway fixed finally and Beth had a host of honey do's for me on my three days off. Amber is getting ready to graduate, possible heading to Baton Rouge for College. Well Boy just had you on my mind today and wanted to remind you that family loves you

jal

April 29, 2008

HEY LITTLE BRO TODAY'S YOUR 23RD BIRTHDAY AND I MISS YOU SO MUCH. I DIDN'T GET A CHANCE TO COME SEE YOU DUE TO THE TREMENDOUS AMOUNT OF RAIN. I MISS YOU GREATLY AND KNOW ONE DAY I WILL SEE YOU AGAIN JUST REMEMBER US SMALL PEOPLE DOWN HERE. LOVE YOU BUNCHES

RANDI
LIKE A SISTER

April 26, 2008

Happy Birthday Josh!!! :)

Kelly

April 26, 2008

Happy Birthday little brother, We Love you and Miss you!!!

April 26, 2008

Josh

We met for a short time I remember because you and I shared a joke and a good laugh. We would then part ways for what would I never thought would be forever. I am sad that you are gone but I am glad you are with my fahter and your father alike. Your brothers are my brothers and as long as we are the family that came together when God called you home your life and memory will live on forever.

Your Brother Always

Deputy Gary J Larks Jr.

Gary Larks Jr
JPSO

April 25, 2008

Josh, I've recently had the opportunity to "meet" your mother and I can see how much she loves you still and is proud of you and all that you accomplished in your short life. She has every reason to be proud because she raised her son to be a man of integrity and purpose. Please know that you are remembered and honored by myself and my family on your birthday and every day.

Jennifer Mayo, sister of
Deputy Hilery A. Mayo Jr. STPSO La. E.O.W 6/9/07

April 24, 2008

To Jessica,

Over Mountains
Over Trees
Over Oceans
Over Seas
I'll be there

In a whisper on the wind
On the smile of a new friend
Just think of me
And I'll be there

Don't be afraid, oh my love
I'll be watching you from above
And I'd give all the world tonight,
To be with you
Because I'm on your side,
And I still care
I may have died,
But I've gone nowhere
Just think of me,
And I'll be there

On the edge of a waking dream
Over Rivers
Over Streams
Through Wind and Rain
I'll be there

Across the wide and open sky
Thousands of miles I'd fly
To be with you
I'll be there

Don't be afraid, oh my love
I'll be watching you from above
And I'd give all the world tonight,
To be with you
Because I'm on your side,
And I still care
I may have died,
But I've gone nowhere
Just think of me,
And I'll be there

In the breath of a wind that sighs
Oh, there's no need to cry
Just think of me,
And I'll be there

"Just look for me
and in small ways
I'll let you know
We're not apart...
When you need me most
I'll Be There."

April 22, 2008

Well Josh...
You would be 23 in just 9 days and I've been pondering what to do to honor your birthday. I keep going over pictures of you from past birthdays, holidays and family gatherings... seeing your smile (sometimes with teeth showing) and knowing how happy you were. You had everything planned out for your life... prioritized. It still just doesn't seem real... you should be having fun with Jess and your friends right now... just a phone call away.

Oh, how I miss you. I know you still come around...I feel your presense; I hear your favorite songs; I find 'pennies' at opportune moments when I know you are there. I know you were with me at the police auction when I got your car... I felt your hands on my shoulders keeping me from falling in a puddle of sobbing tears.

I don't completely feel like you are gone, but I accept that you are in Heaven. I know 'cos it's said in the Bible that 'any man that lays down his life for another has a special place in Heaven'.

You are, and will always be, my baby and I look forward to being with you again someday. I am grateful to God for allowing me to be your mother. Raising you boys single-handedly was a gift... sometimes hard without any support, but always rewarding in the end. Y'all ended up being great young men and Josh, you were the most focused and responsible of all. You had great insight and a gift in picking your friends. So glad you were so well-rounded and accomplished for being raised by only me. Makes me feel good and so proud of you for the choices you made in your life and no one can take that away.

Thank you Josh for being such a special, loyal and loving son. Keep watch over your brothers, niece and nephew(s) and especially Jess... she needs your strength.

I Love You and Miss You,
Mom

Claudia Calvert
Mother of JPSO Joshua Norris

April 17, 2008

I'm sorry we never met, but your father introduced himself to us at lunch. He is obviously proud of you and your brother. Bless you Deputy Norris, and may God ease your family's pain - Beech Grove Police Dept. (IN)

April 9, 2008

Well Kid your birthday just around the corner, you may had only one with us, but feel you are one of my kids. Been thinking what would have Beth did this year for you, I know you would be getting me in trouble on Beth's Birthday, going out and getting her Godiva Chocolates or something, which I have to make sure I get something today for it. Figure you would have settled into your beat and we probably get you something work related or for the house. Probably the house, possible something for a bar, since you had such great plans for that room off the living room. Passed by your old place and every time just think what could have been. Josh I wish there was a way I could take your place and allow you the time to have and feel the joy of being married and kids. I have marveled every time how my heart skips a beat when I look at Beth and the way my soul is lifted to see the girls laughing regardless of their age, just wish there would be a way I could give you that opportunity. There is no doubt that you would have made a great husband and father, I saw how giving you are. I saw Beth and myself in you and Jess, I always told the girls find someone as dumb as myself, who would love them without question and end like I love their mother. Sorry for the somber mood of the letter, just been down lately. Been getting better , figure you have a kick watching this ole Marine and cop get watery eyed. Can talk about that day now a little better, still get that feeling of lost, just I can hold back the water better now. Well on to better notes, some guy passed by the house and saw Duke and want to see if I wanted a female version of Duke, told the guy one digging machine is enough. See you did not have to travel all the way up north to get a white huskie, still get a kick of you buying a dog from the internet. Back into the work out routine, pushing 325 now and the goal is to get to 340. Beth, Jess and Amber are talking about getting a gym membership, will see how long that will last. Matt and TAra are doing good and will be moving in Jun and Lil Mat is growing like a weed. Will be heading to DC for the memorial in May, which I wish there would be no reason to and no need for me to be writing this, Josh know that I love you like a son and think of you daily.

jal

April 9, 2008

Rest in Peace now Brother. God bless you and your older brothers, " My Brothers to " gone to soon!!!!!

Deputy D. Clouatre
Orleans Parish Criminal Sheriffs

April 4, 2008

To the family and friends of Officer Joshua Norris. My heart and soul are with you as I read about your loss. I do not know what it will take for this world to end the senseless violence. You are protectors of our families and I am forever grateful for the duty you serve. I am not a police officer, a military man or do I have any relations or relationship with police or military. I try to be a good citizen and not break the law. I have a few speeding tickets that I am guilty as sin for, but the officer was only doing his / her job and I accepted responsibility for my actions. I am an ordinary citizen who simply wants to express my gratefulness. You know as well as I that some people in this society put a bad name on you. The truth is that you live your lives above and beyond the call of duty. Never forget that many people like myself recognize your bravery and courage! I can write a million words to all of you, but I must end with only two......."Thank You" !

Dan

Dan
Citizen

April 3, 2008

To the family and friends of Officer Joshua Norris. My heart and soul are with you as I read about your loss. I do not know what it will take for this world to end the senseless violence. You are protectors of our families and I am forever grateful for the duty you serve. I am not a police officer, a military man or do I have any relations or relationship with police or military. I try to be a good citizen and not break the law. I have a few speeding tickets that I am guilty as sin for, but the officer was only doing his / her job and I accepted responsibility for my actions. I am an ordinary citizen who simply wants to express my gratefulness. You know as well as I that some people in this society put a bad name on you. The truth is that you live your lives above and beyond the call of duty. Never forget that many people like myself recognize your bravery and courage! I can write a million words to all of you, but I must end with only two......."Thank You" !

Dan

Dan
Citizen

April 3, 2008

Josh,
Your name came up today in a conversation and it just brought back so many difficult memories. Your death was so soon after that of my brother and it was just so shocking to me that a young man so full of life and with so much to offer could so suddenly be taken from those that love him.
I took the opportunity tonight to read over some of your many reflections and I can see that your life may have been short, but it was full of love and family. I know that you and my brother have probably had a chance to chat up there and trade a few stories. You two watch out for each other and know that your families miss and love you. I will not be able to make it to Washington this year to see you guys honored; but know that I will be thinking of you on May 15th and EVERY day!

Jennifer Mayo, sister of
Deputy Hilery A. Mayo Jr. STPSO La. E.O.W 6/9/07

April 3, 2008

Hey Boy

Hope you not just sleeping your time away up their in heaven, like when you were with us. Well last parade over ( Irish-Italian) untill next year, weather was great and very uneventful which was good. Had the typical drunk fights, but noting major. Did have two clowns hide on the floats when we started to escort then back after the parade. Hate to stay it, but we did not catch them untill down the road some distance and one of the guys on the bikes blocking an intersection saw them waving at the drunks still on the parade route. Last week had a another JP have a close one in your old district. Like always starts out as nothing and grows. Started out as a basic traffic stop and then into a pursuit. The guy jumps from the vehicle to run and turns a AK 47 on the deputy, the deputy was quicker on the draw and a better shot and he got to go home, the bad guy did not make it. Well in June I think I will hang it up, old bones can not keep up with the young guys and Beth and the girls are starting to push for me to retire. Your birthday is coming up and figure it should be a hard one for Jess , but the whole family also. When I got home last night from work Beth was sitting at the table thinking about your last birthday and how surprise you were when she woke you up that morning sing Happy Birthday to you with a cake and all. Josh in the short time you were with us, you became a big part of the family. Jess is not doing good and needs your help, so if you can whisper in her ear to help her get back on track amd I will owe you one.

jal

March 31, 2008

To Deputy Sheriff Joshua Norris and Family,

We will be in Washington in May to hear your name read and honor your life and great sacrifice. The pain never ends but neither does our pride and joy for all you are and were to this world. Matt loved what he did and would have done nothing else. His father went to academy last fall at age 56 to honor Matt and continue his legacy. Thank you to you and your family for the strength that you bring to the family of the thin blue line.

Linda Rittenhouse
Mother of Fallen Officer Matthew Rittenhouse EOW 9/16/2004

March 19, 2008

Hey Josh,
I just wanted to say hello and that I love you very much. As I'm sure you know, one of your nephews was born on February 13. I know that you were there, I felt you everywhere. I miss you more than ever, look over Adam and I as we continue to do the work on the streets that you started. I will see you again one day little brother, take care of yourself. I'm forever proud of you and for the things that you did.

Love Forever bro,
Robin

Deputy Robin C. Calvert
Jefferson Parish Sheriff's Office

February 29, 2008