Charles Norris was born in Quitman, Texas on December 1, 1930 to Marie and John T. Williams. He was raised in the farming area near Mabank, Texas and spent his young life taking care of the family farm under the guidance of his beloved “bonus dad” T.E Norris. He always considered this a perfect setting for a young boy being surrounded by horses, cows, pigs, chickens, and his favorite old dogs, Brownie and Ranger. Charles worked hard on the farm picking cotton, pulling corn, or chopping wood; but made plenty of time for fishing and hunting.
Charles remembers his family huddled around an old battery radio on the night of the day that Japan attacked Pearl Harbor…….he was 11 years old. Having two favorite uncles in the Navy was one of the reasons he followed the news of the war so closely and continued to enjoy the history. He loved to visit with the veterans of that particular war. Charles has always had the greatest respect and admiration for all who have served this country.
Charles attended High School in Mabank and graduated in 1948. He loved sharing his memories as a Mabank Panther where he was selected as captain of the football team. Recently, he enjoyed attending Mabank’s football games and cheering on the current Panthers, even visiting with them on the sideline to give them a “pep talk” before the game.
In 1949, Charles married his high school sweetheart, Billie Bell. They were married for 12 years and had two children; daughter, Charlotte; and son, Gene. In 1966, Charles married Barbara Ann Wallace and began his journey with Barbara and her daughter, Rebecca. In 1972, Charles and Barbara welcomed their daughter, Tracie Annette.
For the past 57 years, Charles and Barbara have happily lived and served the community of
Quinlan, Texas. Charles spoke often of the love of fishing on Lake Tawakoni and hosting countless 4th of July fish fry events for family, extended family, and many friends. On Friday nights Charles could be seen sitting in his “usual spot” rooting for his other favorite Panther team (the
Quinlan Panthers) and his favorite cheerleader, his daughter Tracie.
Charles is survived by his loving wife, Barbara and his children Charlotte Buchanan, Gene Norris, Rebecca Smith (Randy) and Tracie Williams (John). His grandchildren, Adam Buchanan, Bobby Buchanan, Clay Buchanan (Angelina), Alison Guardiola (Jimmy), Emily Hernandez
(Jonathan), Dillon Smith, Taylor Williams, and Grayson Williams. Great grandchildren Jonah Buchanan, Isaac Buchanan, Audie Hernandez, Albert Smith, Arwen Smith, Levi Guardiola, and Noah Guardiola and many beloved nieces and nephews. Charles will be greatly missed.
“In my mind, no earthly father has ever loved his family any more than I love mine……and they have shown me and proven to me many times, their love for me is no less…..I know myself. My wife and my children are born-again Christians……the love we share with each other is the same love God shares with our family….and with that, I will enter my grave as content as any man ever could….. Love, CN
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Rockwall and Brin Church of Christ Share Center, 408 Fox, Terrell, TX 75160.
