Bishop Curtis G. Norton (d. 2004) was pastor of the Merrick Park Baptist Church from 1960 until his death in 2004. As a child he attended New York City public schools. As a pastor he was the recipient of many honors, notably an Honorary Doctorate Degree from James A. Teamer School of Religion and Doctorate of Human Letters. In 1995, Bishop Norton was appointed Sate Overseer of Western New York. In 1996, he was consecrated State Bishop. Bishop Norton instituted various ministries and was active in the community and chaired many committees.