Merle Reynolds Norris

NOTICE: The memorial service for Mrs. Norris has been rescheduled and will be held on Sunday, January 12, 2025 at 1:00PM at Grace Fellowship Church. 

On December 24, 2024, Merle Reynolds Norris, age 84, passed peacefully from the temporal realm to the eternal to be with her family and the Lord. Born in Hazelhurst, Georgia to James Edgar Reynolds and Evvie Moseley Reynolds, Merle was the youngest of ten children. Having lived in Florida and ultimately Screven Georgia, Merle graduated high school in 1958 and later moved to Athens, Georgia to live with her sister, Una and brother-in-law Lawerence Harvey and begin her journey in life.

In 1962, Merle married J. Wayne Norris, and they welcomed two children, Eric W. Norris, in 1968 and Patrick D. Norris, in 1973. Prior to children, Merle worked locally in the Athens area, but when children arrived, she primarily was a homemaker. Merle was a musician at heart and loved to participate in choir, women’s groups, and sing solos at church. As a devout follower of Christ, Merle was instrumental in creating and participating in women’s Christian studies and prayer ministries.

Merle was predeceased by her parents, eight of her siblings, extended family and her son, Patrick D. Norris (2024). Merle is survived by her sister, Una Harvey, nieces, nephews, ex-husband, J. Wayne Norris (Susan) and her son, Eric W. Norris (Jennifer) and grandchildren (Caleb and Greer).

The family would like to thank the staff and caretakers at Orchard of Athens for the care and comfort provided to Merle and the family. The family will hold a memorial service at Grace Fellowship Church, 1120 Malcom Bridge Road, Bogart, at 1:00PM on Sunday, January 12, 2025.

Lord and Stephens Funeral Home, WEST, is in charge of arrangements. www.lordandstephens.com