Norvell Lamont Abrams, lovingly known to everyone as “Vell”, was born on May 8, 1974 in Saint Louis, Missouri to Orvell “QA” Furlow and Cleo Furlow. From the very beginning, Norvell brought joy, laughter, and love wherever he went.

He attended Normandy High School and later continued his education at Job Corps. Education mattered to Norvell, but what mattered most to him was people - his family, his friends, and anyone lucky enough to be in his presence.

Norvell truly loved life. He loved God, music, dancing, eating good food, and having a good time. If music was playing, Norvell was moving. If food was cooking, he was ready. He had a beautiful smile that could light up any room, and once you saw it, you never forgot it. His laughter was contagious, his spirit was joyful, and his energy was unmatched.

A proud mama’s boy, Norvell shared an unbreakable bond with his mother, Cleo. Family meant everything to him, and he showed his love openly and often. His famous words, “that’s what’s up”, summed up his outlook on life - positive, real, and full of heart.

Norvell leaves to cherish his memory: his beloved children ~ Roshanda Sanderson, Destiney Abrams and Joseph “Lil Joe” Sanderson, whom he loved deeply and proudly. He is also survived by: his siblings ~ Roland Hayes, Maegan Hayes and Pelar (Ronald) Seals; his precious grandchildren ~ Kai Abrams and Kaliyah Abrams; and his longtime love ~ Kimberly “Kim” Barton.

He was preceded in death by his beloved mother Cleo Furlow, his grandmother Letha, and his brother and best friend Mario, whom he now rejoins in eternal peace.

Though Norvell is no longer with us in body, his love, laughter, music, and spirit will live on forever in our hearts.