Leila T. Norris
Leila T. Norris, age 103, of Russellville passed from this life Dec. 11 at home surrounded by her family.
Visitation will be held at Spry Memorial Chapel, Russellville, Dec. 13 from 5-8 p.m., with the memorial service Dec. 14 at 11 a.m. with Bro. Jackie Richardson, Bro. Scott Richardson and Bro. Gary Patton officiating. Interment will be at Knights of Pythias Cemetery in Russellville.
She was born in Prattville Feb. 8, 1916, and grew up in Port Author, Texas. In 1934 she went to Harding College, where she met Billy Norris. They were married Oct. 8, 1936.
Leila led the life of a preacher’s wife until Billy passed in 2011. They served with churches in Knoxville, Tenn., Montgomery, Maryville, Tenn., Sparta, Tenn., Searcy, Ark., and Russellville.
In 1955, after moving to Russellville, she helped run two family businesses: Norris King Frosty and Norris Printing and Book Company.
On her 100th birthday, Leila was presented the Key to the City of Russellville by the mayor.
Leila was preceded in death by her husband of more than 74 years, Billy Norris; parents Samuel F. Timmerman and Fanny Garrett Timmerman; son Benjie Norris and daughter-in-law Mary Jane Norris; three brothers; and two sisters.
She is survived by daughter Bunny Richardson (Jackie); sons Tim Norris (Beverly) and Lanny Norris (Donna); grandchildren Scott Richardson (Sheila), Lei-anne Hester (Jack), Becky Romine (Brent), Julie May (Steve), Amy Norris, Blake Norris (Julie), Blair Boyer, Jennifer Hunt (Buddy) and Jeff Norris (Rachel); 20 great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren; and one brother, Garrett Timmerman (Emilie).
Pallbearers will be Jeff Norris, Stefan Richardson, Brandon Hester, Brock Hester, Gavin Richardson, Brock Romine, Samuel Norris and Ben May.
The family wishes to thank and honor the ladies who took care of their loved one for their devoted service: Ashley Swinney, Shaun Seahorn, Trish Brazell, Elizabeth Armstrong, Sandi Strickland, Abby Burks and Brittany Seahorn.
The family requests that in lieu of flowers donations be made to Rustic Youth Camp, 3170 Shady Grove Road, Russellville, AL 35653.
Spry Memorial Chapel is assisting the family. To leave private condolences, visit www.sprymemorialchapel.com.
