Norman Nielsen King

Norman Nielsen King, a beloved son, brother, husband, father, and friend, passed away on September 27, 2023, at the age of 85 in Atlanta, Georgia. He leaves behind a legacy of laughter, adventure, and boundless enthusiasm. Norman was born on August 18, 1938, in Washington D.C., to his late parents, Dr. Walter Bertram King and Edith Cecilia Nielsen, who instilled in him the values of kindness and a zest for life. Norman's life was a tapestry of remarkable experiences. He excelled in swimming, diving, football, and basketball at Murphy High School in Atlanta, Georgia, earning a full scholarship to the University of Georgia, where he left an indelible mark as one of the University's best athletes. While he dedicated himself to sports, his passion for the classroom was limited, leading to stories of his adventures in his college town’s beer joints. In 2022, the Wally's Boys Association recognized Norman with the High Five Recognition, acknowledging him as Georgia's most unforgettable character, who, had he been more dedicated to his studies, might have won the Heisman Trophy. He left University of Georgia after his sophomore year to join the U.S. Marine Corps’ First Battalion Platoon 172 in Paris Island, South Carolina. He loved his country and proudly served with commitment and honor, earning a Good Conduct Medal and an honorable discharge. Following his military service, Norman was drafted by the Buffalo Bills and played as a flanking back in the American Football League during its charter year in 1960. But Norman's journey did not end there. He ventured to Brisbane, Australia, where he owned a luxury pool company and became an avid golf enthusiast. He had the privilege of teeing off with golf legends like Gary Player, Bobby Locke, Jack Nicklaus, Greg Norman, Davis Love, and Jeff Sluman. Yet, it was his regular rounds with his best friends that brought him the most joy. When not on the golf course, you could find Norman writing music and playing the piano. His tunes filled dinner parties, high school reunions, and the occasional bar in Atlanta. Wherever Norman traveled in life he always made a lasting impact on others and appreciated spending time with everyone. Family was a cornerstone of Norman's life. He loved his parents, brothers, nieces, nephews and all his friends. He cherished his granddaughters, Kendall Taylor Isaacs of Jacksonville Beach, Florida, and Christian Taylor of Charlotte, North Carolina. He was fortunate to meet and adore his great-grandson, Carter Thomas Isaacs, and great-granddaughter, Chandler Grace Isaacs. Norman was a people person, never meeting a stranger he did not like and always was the life of the party. He lived every day with a positive attitude and a remarkable spirit that made everyone around him feel special. His long career with Georgia Crown Distributing Co. in Atlanta, Georgia, was a testament to his dedication and love for his work. Norman is survived by his brother, Dr. Dennis Lee King of Boston, Massachusetts, and is fondly remembered as the brother of the late Bertram E. King of Waco, Texas. He was recently preceded in death by his first wife Beverly Gaye Boardman of Atlanta, Georgia, and together they had one son, Michael Taylor, who resides in Ponte Vedra, Florida with Susan Taylor. Norman was also preceded in death by his second wife, Peggy James of Augusta, Georgia. He cherished each of his wives deeply, always maintaining a remarkably friendly and respectful relationship with them throughout his life. Norman Nielsen King will be remembered as a loving father, an inspiring athlete, a captivating character, and a true legend. He touched the lives of many people from all walks of life, leaving behind a profound impact. As we bid farewell to this extraordinary soul, let us carry forward his life's motto: "Take time to smell the flowers and play more golf." A Celebration of Life Service is scheduled on December 10, 2023, at 11:00 AM at Johnny's Hideaway located at 3771 Roswell Rd NE, Atlanta, GA 30342. Norman's spirit will live on in our hearts as we remember his zest for life and the joy he brought to everyone he met. Until we meet again in heaven, rest in peace.

Norman Nielsen King

August 18, 1938 - September 27, 2023