14th Annual Blood Drive Honors Fallen Fort Bend County Sheriff's Office Deputy John 'JD' Norsworthy: A Community Tradition of Giving
Each year, the Fort Bend County community comes together to honor the life and legacy of Deputy John "JD" Norsworthy, a dedicated law enforcement officer who tragically lost his life in the line of duty. Known for his smile, his unwavering commitment to his family, and his passion for serving others, JD left a profound mark on those who knew him.
To honor his memory, the Fort Bend County Sheriff's Office, in partnership with the Gulf Coast Regional Blood Center, will host the 14th Annual Blood Drive on Tuesday, December 10, 2024, from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at Patton Hall inside the Gus George Law Enforcement Academy in Richmond, Texas. The blood drive not only serves as a tribute to Deputy Norsworthy's service but also offers an opportunity for the community to continue his legacy of helping others through the simple act of donating blood.
A Life of Service and Sacrifice
Deputy Norsworthy’s story is one of service, sacrifice, and deep commitment. Born at Fort Hood, Texas, and raised in Sugar Land, JD dedicated his life to making his community a safer place. He spent two years with the Fort Bend County Sheriff's Office, after previously serving with the Rosenberg Police Department. His fellow officers remember him as someone who always had their back, a man whose integrity and dedication were evident both on and off duty.
On December 27, 2010, while responding to a backup request for a fellow officer at a traffic stop, Deputy Norsworthy was involved in a tragic automobile accident. His patrol car flipped and struck a tree, leaving him critically injured. Rescue crews were unable to extricate him from the vehicle for almost an hour. Despite being rushed to the hospital, JD succumbed to his injuries on January 4, 2011, at the age of 39.
His passing left a void in the community, and he is deeply missed by his wife, Melissa, and their two children, Jacob and Katlyn. His colleagues, friends, and family remember JD as a loving father, husband, and friend, a man whose character and dedication to others will never be forgotten.
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The Significance of the Annual Blood Drive
In the days following Deputy Norsworthy’s accident, the community came together in an outpouring of support, donating more than 660 units of blood in his honor. At the time, JD received more than 48 units of blood in an effort to save his life. This overwhelming response to his tragic accident laid the foundation for an annual tradition: the blood drive in his memory.
Now, in its 14th year, the blood drive continues to be a powerful way to honor JD's legacy and make a difference in the lives of others. Every year, members of the Fort Bend County community — including local law enforcement, first responders, and residents — gather to donate blood, ensuring that others in need have access to life-saving care.
The Gulf Coast Regional Blood Center, which partners with the Sheriff's Office for the event, stresses the critical importance of blood donations in saving lives. A single donation can help up to three people, making each contribution significant and impactful.
How to Participate
The 14th Annual Blood Drive in honor of Deputy John Norsworthy will be held on Tuesday, December 10, 2024, from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at Patton Hall in the Gus George Law Enforcement Academy, located at 1521 Eugene Heimann Cir., Richmond, TX. Donors are encouraged to register in advance, although walk-ins are also welcome.
To schedule an appointment, visit the Gulf Coast Regional Blood Center’s websiteat giveblood.org and use sponsor code 5642. Donors should plan to eat and drink beforehand, and bring a valid ID to the event. As a thank-you, all donors will receive a free stocking stuffer.
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Continuing the Legacy of Giving
The annual blood drive not only helps save lives, but it also serves as a reminder of the enduring legacy of Deputy John Norsworthy. His story is one of dedication to service, love for family, and a deep sense of responsibility to the community he swore to protect. Through this blood drive, his spirit of giving lives on, inspiring others to contribute to a cause that impacts lives in meaningful ways.
Whether you knew Deputy Norsworthy personally or not, this event provides an opportunity for the entire community to come together, honor his memory, and give the gift of life. Your participation in this year’s blood drive is a powerful tribute to a hero who gave everything for his community.
Event Details
- Date: Tuesday, December 10, 2024
- Time: 10:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
- Location: Patton Hall, Gus George Law Enforcement Academy, 1521 Eugene Heimann Cir., Richmond, TX
- Sponsor Code: 5642
- Register: Commit for Life
This holiday season, make a difference in honor of Deputy JD Norsworthy — donate blood and help save lives.
Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.
