Robert Hal Norton, longtime pastor of Garden City Chapel, died Feb. 13, 2010.
Born Feb. 10, 1931, in Mullins, he received a bachelor of arts degree in English from the University of South Carolina as part of the first class of Byrnes Scholars. He later served as the president of the Byrnes Foundation for many years. He received a master of divinity degree from Southeastern Baptist Seminary.
He served as pastor of Garden City Chapel for 42 years. He engaged in significant work with children’s homes from three states. He also hosted children from Northern Ireland to promote peace and develop leaders.
Norton was a supporter of the Pee Dee Area Big Brothers. He was awarded the Order of the Silver Crescent for his contributions to the Palmetto State in 2002.
He spent his life working with young people through ministry, education, and benevolent organizations. His love of sports gave him a passion for sports ministry. Norton was instrumental in establishing the Fellowship of Christian Athletes on a statewide level and was a part of the first class inducted to the South Carolina FCA Hall of Fame.
He is survived by five siblings and many nieces and nephews.