Funeral services, public visitation set for Aroma Park's Maurice Norington 

A Funeral service and public viewing and visitation are now scheduled for 65-year-old Maurice Norington of Aroma Park.  Officials list him as the only Illinois fatality from the March 10 tornado that swept across Kankakee County.

The public viewing and visitation will take place from 4 to 6 pm Wednesday 3/25 at Jones Funeral Home in Kankakee. A celebration of life service will be Thursday 3/26 at Corinthian Temple Church of God in Christ in Chicago.  A wake is set for 10 am and the funeral to follow at 11 am.  A burial service will take place at 1 pm Friday 3/27 at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery in Elwood.

The Daily-Journal reported on Norington's background, a news release provided by the family. “Maurice Norington was more than a victim of a natural disaster – he was a man whose life reflected discipline, humility, and quiet strength,“ Norington’s family said in a news release. “Raised in the Pembroke Township community, Maurice built a life rooted in service, family, and a deep love for horses.” 

The family also said that Maurice worked his way through the ranks at Arlington Racetrack, starting as a hotwalker, then becoming a groomer, horse owner and ultimately a licensed trainer. This was a rare and meaningful accomplishment, particularly as an African American man in the industry, the family said.

“Known throughout the backstretch community as a ‘mover and a shaker,’ Maurice earned the respect of trainers, riders, and crews alike,” according to the release.

“His colleagues remember him not only for his skill and work ethic, but for his generosity, humility and willingness to support others. He was deeply loved – both on and off the track.

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