John Francis Norbury

John Norbury, 57, of Middletown, Rhode Island, passed away on October 29, 2018 at home after a courageous three year battle with cancer surrounded by his loving family.

John was born on November 18, 1960 in Newport, RI. He was the son of Harold A. Norbury and Pauline (Barker) Norbury.

John was married to Karen (Condry) Norbury for over 30 years.

John was a 1979 graduate of Rogers High School in Newport, RI and a 1987 graduate of the Tool Dye Making Program at the former Jewelry Institute in Providence, RI. He was a machinist by trade; and was employed for the last 26 years as a machinist supervisor at Laserstar Technologies Inc. in riverside, RI.

John was involved in the Newport Little League baseball for several years as a coach, when his son Steven was younger. Both of his children were athletic; and John could be found cheering them on during their Junior High and High School years at all of their sporting events. He never missed a swim meet, track meet, basketball game, soccer game or baseball game.

John was a devoted Patriots fan and always enjoyed watching the games with his son Steven. Against all odds, John and Steven were able to watch the first official game of the season on September 9 th, together. He was an avid walker for many years and could often be seen walking down on the Point in Newport and along Broadway.

Despite his declining health, John was able to walk his daughter , Michelle, down the isle on her wedding day in July. His determination to do this for Michelle and his hard work with his physical therapist, was surpassed only by his strong will to accomplish this special goal.

John is survived by his daughter, Michelle Babbitt and her husband Thomas, of Middletown, RI and his son Steven Norbury, of Needham, MA.

He is also survived by his sister, Janet Skahill and her husband Edward, of South Kingstown, RI , his brother Paul Norbury, of Portsmouth, RI, and his brother Robert Norbury and his wife Mary of North Kingstown, RI. He is also survived by eight loving nieces and nephews, as well as his great-nephew and three great nieces. Johns feline sons, Ollie and Frasier will miss him greatly. They were loving pets and could always be found at his side.

The family would like to express their deepest appreciation to Dr. Ariel Birnbaum and the entire staff at the Lifespan Cancer at Rhode Island Hospital. Their care, compassion and love for John, while he fought this tough battle was above and beyond and will never be forgotten.

During his final weeks, John was cared for by Hope Hospice and Palliative Care of RI. The family extends their sincere appreciation to the entire staff for their care. A special thank you to his hospice nurse, Carolyn, an amazing person who cared for John with a gentle hand and true compassion.

Calling hours will be held on Friday November 2, 2018 from 4-7 pm in the Memorial Funeral Home 375 Broadway in Newport.

His funeral will be held on Saturday November 3, 2018 at 8:30 am in the funeral home , with a Mass of Christian Burial at 9:30 in Jesus Savior Church 509 Broadway in Newport.

Burial will be in St. Columba Cemetery Browns Lane in Middletown

In Lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his name to the Head and Neck Cancer Fund at the Rhode Island Hospital Foundation 139 Point Street Providence, RI 02903.