Born in Moss Point, MS, Norris grew up with a family of two older brothers, six older sisters and two younger sisters. This large family struggled financially during the Great Depression just as many other families of that time, but a strong Christian faith and love for each other gave Norris a sense of stability as he grew up.
After graduating from high school, Norris attended Tuskegee University, receiving a Bachelor of Science Degree. Upon graduating from Tuskegee, he taught school for two years in Moss Point and then was called to active duty in the United States Air Force. His Air Force career spanned twenty years, including tours in Germany, France, and Vietnam. Norris retired from the Air Force in 1972 and continued to reside in Aurora, CO, where he had been stationed.
Upon retirement from the Air Force, Norris joined Bank Western as a branch manager and first vice president. He retired from Bank Western in 1987 and then took a position as realtor with Ken Rice Associates. A third retirement occurred in 2006.
Norris’ life in Aurora gave him opportunities to become involved in the life of the city as a concerned and active citizen. He was instrumental in helping to raise money for the establishment of the YMCA in Aurora. He helped to form the Boys and Girls Club in North Aurora and that organization remained very dear to him. Norris was a member of the Aurora Kiwanis Club until its demise and while a member he worked diligently helping with the humanitarian and civic programs of that club.
Norris is a member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, a brotherhood that works to improve academic excellence in African American male students and the betterment of African American families. Norris has been a member of this fraternity for more than fifty years.
Norris was a founding member of Citizens Concerned About Minorities in Aurora (CCAMA). This organization was formed to respond to the perceived instances of racial discrimination in this city.
In 1983, Norris was recognized for his civic activities by being named Man of the Year by the Aurora Chamber of Commerce.
In 1983, Norris joined Parkview Church. He has served as moderator and sang in the choir. He had great fun with a church auction some years ago. After the death of beloved Pastor John Thomas, Norris helped to establish the Thomas Foundation. This was a work of love for Norris and it was with regret that he had to discontinue his participation in this organization.
Norris was married to his wife Artimese for 67 years. They have four children Denise (Bill) Hubbell, Dale (Jane) Cowan, Dawn (Lance) Frazier, and Dina (Frank) Berta; seven grandchildren, Meghan, Adrian (Jamie), Paige, Gillian, Lance Jr. (Tonia), Chloe (Christian) and Dorian, and four great-grandchildren, Liyah, Lexie, Laila, and Cade. Their son Dean passed away in 2011.
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