Norman Hecht

Norfolk – Norman Hecht, 93, passed away on September 12, 2026, after a brief illness.

A proud native of Norfolk, he was the son and youngest child of the late Mollie L. and Joseph L. Hecht. He graduated from Maury High School in 1950 and University of Virginia Law School in 1956. Upon graduation, Norman immediately began practicing law in Norfolk until his retirement in 1997.

Norman enjoyed a very active lifestyle up until his death, including volunteering more than 2,000 hours at the Military Aviation Museum in Pungo, working on his classic Mustangs, and taking his beloved dog Ringo on daily walks at the beach. He could discuss current events and ancient history with equal ease, and his sharp mind and quick wit will be dearly missed.

In 1956, he married Gloria Caplan and they enjoyed 47 years together until her untimely death in 2003. In 2010, he and Sherry Goldstein married, second marriages for both, and spent the next 16 years of their lives together.

Norman was a loving and devoted son, brother, father, grandfather, great-grandfather and uncle who took immense pride in his family.

Norman leaves behind a legacy of love and will be deeply missed by his wife Sherry; his children J. Randolph Hecht (Lori), J. Lawrence Hecht (Mai-Ellen), and Michele Cleland (David); grandchildren Matthew, Ryan (Rachel), Nathan (Jordan), Sydney, and Elissa; and great-grandson Finnegan. He is also survived by his brothers-in-law Stephen Caplan (Renee) and James Caplan (Randy), as well as many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Norman also enjoyed a wonderful relationship with Sherry’s children Kevin (Barbara) Goldstein, Micah (Nikki) Goldstein, and Jodi Goldstein, as well as her grandchildren David, Daniel, Jack, Reid, Tyler, Rowen, and Avi.

Norman was predeceased by his first wife Gloria Hecht, daughter Lynn Hecht, granddaughter Naomi Hecht, and his siblings Jerome Massey, Shirley Nagle, and Doris Gordon.

A memorial service was officiated by Rabbi Rosalyn Mandelberg at H D. Oliver Funeral Apartments. Interment followed at Forest Lawn Cemetery.

Memorial donations can be made to the Military Aviation Museum or to Ohef Sholom Temple. Online condolences may be offered at hdoliver.com.