It is with great sadness that we announce the death of Rev. William Norvel, SSJ. Father Norvel went to be with the Lord on Sunday March 8, 2026.

Father Norvel was a faithful Josephite priest, pastor, teacher, author, and liturgical leader whose ministry spanned more than five decades. Born in Pascagoula, Mississippi, he was ordained to the priesthood in 1965 and dedicated his life to serving Black Catholic communities across the United States.

In 2011, Father Norvel made history when he was elected the 13th Superior General of the Society of St. Joseph of the Sacred Heart, becoming the first African American to lead the Josephites and the first Black man to head a Catholic religious community of priests in the United States.

Throughout his priesthood, Father Norvel was widely known for his leadership during the Black Catholic Movement, helping to foster the incorporation of Black spiritual traditions within Catholic worship. He traveled the country helping establish gospel choirs in African American Catholic parishes and contributed to the landmark hymnal Lead Me, Guide Me: The African American Catholic Hymnal.

His ministry also extended internationally, where he helped establish a Josephite house of formation in Nigeria, strengthening vocations that continue to support the Josephite mission today.

We give thanks to Almighty God for Father Norvel’s life of priestly service, his courageous witness in the struggle for dignity and inclusion within the Church, and his steadfast commitment to the Josephite mission.

“Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him.”

Funeral Arrangements

Washington, DC
March 18, 2026
Viewing: 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Funeral Mass: 11:00 AM
Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church
1600 Morris Rd SE
Washington, DC 20020

Pascagoula, Mississippi

Viewing: 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Funeral Mass: 11:00 AM
Saint Peter the Apostle Catholic Church
1715 Telephone Rd
Pascagoula, MS 39567

Burial will follow at Gabriel Cemetery, located next to the parish

In Lieu of Flowers

Donations may be made in Father Norvel’s honor to support the continuing mission of the Josephites and the apostolate he faithfully shepherded and loved. Give Here.