Today 12/12/23 I was reminded of this beautiful soul. We touched many and was gone too soon. Melody love you and miss you! Sorry I didn't tell you how much I loved you. You are remembered fondly! 

Paule

My sisters and I grew up across the street from the Norris'. Melody and her brother Michael were frequent playmates throughout the years. Every time you saw Melody, she always had a smile on her face. My youngest sister was her closest peer, but we all hung out as neighborhood kids. As one of the oldest of the bunch, life took me away from home as I went off to college and started working. I did not see Melody again for almost 30 years. When visiting my parents in 2018 or 2019,  I saw Melody getting out of the car. I rushed over to say hello and catch up. Her sons were hanging off of her like Christmas ornaments. I can tell that they love their mother. She tells me about work and modestly details her academic and social accomplishments. So educated. So giving. So involved. I remember feeling proud of her. I was amazed at what she had accomplished and what was left to achieve. She had done more before 40 than most people do in a lifetime and she was just scratching the surface. Losing Melody so soon seems like grand theft human. The community and humanity-at-large were robbed of a gift. A gift that we can only appreciate having, if only for a little while. We can only find peace knowing that someone must have needed her more than we did. My condolences to her parents, brother, and extended families. My deepest condolences to her husband and life partner, who lost a piece of himself. To her son's I say keep your heads up and remember the love and nurturing that your mother bestowed upon you. You are blessed. Now you must press on and strive to make her proud in everything you do. Your dad and you both may have lost your queen, but her memory will inspire you to walk like kings. 

Melody was my Sunday School student at Prospect Missionary Baptist Church Chattanooga Tennessee always quiet but had a smile that would light up any room she was very intelligent and smart even at a young age.I thank God for the impact she had on the world in her short lived life here on earth
 Prayers of peace and comfort to the family during this hour of bereavement.  Jesus is Lord💜💜💜
 I 

From sorors, to friends, to my forever sister.  Melody has been part of my life for over 20 years.  I will cherish our friendship, memories made and sisterhood for the rest of my life.  Love you always and forever.


I  met Dr. Waller (Melody) at a nursing conference and we served together on a committee. However, we soon called each other friend! I am thankful that God allowed me to share a friendship with Melody. My sincere condolences to her family. 🙏🏽 

In 2014, Melody and I met  in San Antonio, Texas at the SNRS Conference. We continued to stay in touch and were recently serving on a taskforce together. With a heavy heart, I extend my sincere condolences to the family. This is a time when God does not make sense. But through it all, I pray you hold on to your faith during this difficult time. 

Melody and I went to CSAS together in Chattanooga.,TN she was always so silly and always had that smile that would make your day. I haven't seen Melody in years but I will always have great memories of her and our school days. I'm so heartbroken but  I do know you are in heaven smiling down on all of us.....I'm so lost for words right now but I do know we all will see you one day!!! Sending my condolences to your entire family, you will truly be missed classmate
C/o 1997 rest in heaven my friend!!!

Melody was a bright light bringing joy and laughter to those she touched.  Her passion for women's health and teaching were inspiring. Her faith and integrity were apparent in everything she did.   Patty Cowan

They say people will never forget how you made them feel. That is true of Melody. Her inner light shined a way for many. It was an absolute privilege to work with and know her. We also bonded as sorors and I loved to see sis touch down in those heels. Yet, her joyful smile was her greatest accessory. Her compassion and selflessness was untouched. It was no accident her light touched me and I just thank God for Melody. You are missed. Condolences to her entire family, loved ones, and coworkers. May God keep and comfort you Psalm 147:3.  

Hey Dr. Mel. It's Dr. LAW and your baby, Lilliana. We love you dearly and will miss you so very much. We are truly grateful for the time we had with you. You will never be forgotten. 

Love you always,
Alexia and Lillie 

Sending prayers of comfort and condolences to Mr. Leroy Norris and Family. From Moses Maine and the class 67’.

Melody was a beam of light. We met at SNRS in San Antonio, TX and worked closely with the Minority Research Interest Group. May God comfort and keep her family.  She was an amazing nurse scientist, educator, friend, and Soror. 

Prayerfully submitted.
Tracie Kirkland

Melody was pure SUNSHINE when she entered a room! Quentin, my family is always here for you. We love you and send our thoughts and prayers during this most difficult time 

Whenever I think of Melody I will always remember her smile that lit up a room, her joyful presence, and her sweet spirit. I pray that in time those priceless moments she spent with her family and friends will  become treasured memories that will replace that empty spot you may feel now. May God comfort you and give you peace. ❤️❤️❤️ 

Condolences to the family and friends, praying for you all!🙏🏿 Absent from the body, present with the Lord. Minister Perlie Murray-Dunn, Nashville,Tn friend of stepmother Otis Ann 

Dr. Waller was such a great educator. I had such great respect for her. She was knowledgeable, encouraged you, challenged you, and inspired you. She was THE example of what we were striving to be. I can only send my heartfelt condolences to her sweet family and to tell them what a difference this wonderful lady made to so many people in this world. May her memory be a blessing for us all. Tracy Rapp, DNP-FNP-c class of 2015, MSN-RN class of 2012

Running into Melody on UTHSC’s campus, I could always count on a warm smile, a good laugh, and a promise to do lunch soon. Mel, you will be truly missed! Rest well Soror! 

I will always remember her kindness towards me and all the encouraging words she has given me. Praying for all those who loved her.

I am sending my deepest condolences to the Norris and Waller family. Dr. Waller has been instrumental with my progress in my Ph.D. program and I will never ever forget her. May God grace you all with his love, strength, and peace. 



She was an amazing instructor that contributed to her students community service events. 

From our UTC days to now,  words cannot express how much I cherished our friendship throughout the years. You were there for me and Kalib no matter the occasion. I will carry the memories we shared in my heart forever. I will miss you everyday.

Thank you for sharing her with the world. She made an impact that will never be forgotten. 

Words can’t express how much you will be missed. I am truly saddened and in disbelief. You were always uplifting and encouraging and I’ll forever hold that near and dear. As a professor, you made it your mission to see your students through and I’ll never forget what we discussed. It was always a pleasure to meet with you because I trusted your guidance. The random check-ins and pop ups were appreciated, because that showed me that at least “My Professor” cares. My heart goes out to the family and I will forever keep them in my prayers. 

Dr. Waller was my teacher and champion. I cannot put into words the impact she had on me. She encouraged and believed in me when I was struggling with some tough stuff. She is the reason I kept showing up every day during hard times. She had faith in me when I doubted myself.  She was always willing to lend a sympathetic ear, push her students to be their best selves, and knew when to reach out a helping hand. She spoke of her family with such love and joy. Dr. Waller worked hard and was a dedicated nurse and teacher.  She truly loved her profession; it was her  calling, a vocation. She led with both excellence and empathy. My heart goes out to her family. She spoke of you often with such tenderness.

To the family, we send our deepest condolences. Dr. Waller will definitely never be forgotten. 

My sweet and inspirational Dr. Waller. I will never forget you or the life lessons you taught me during my time at The University of Tennessee Health Science Center’s nursing program. You were an inspiration and touched the lives of so many, including my own. I will never forget that big bright smile, and how genuine and down to earth you always were. Thank you for leaving a never fading imprint on my life. Your legacy will continue to live on through every life that you have touched. We all love you, forever. 

WOW! Words can't express the sadness of hearing of Melody's illness and passing. Our families were and still are neighbors since I was 5. Melody wasn't even born until 8 yrs later. Her big pretty smile was infectious. We all grew up playing kickball, skating, Jack's, board games. So many childhood memories. Although, I'll never understand why God decided you had matured enough to be plucked out His garden at this young age. My family sends our sincerest condolences to the Norris and Waller families💔😭

I worked childbirth simulations with Melody as a simulated patient at UTHSC for the last few years. She was an amazing educator and a joy to be around. My memories of Melody will include days of laughter in the second floor control room and baby girls always having been named Melody when she would ask the name of the infant simulator.  She left the world far too soon. Memory Eternal my friend. I am blessed to have known you.

I have so many wonderful memories filled with laughter, and probably some tears as we worked through the PhD program together. Melody's quick smile and dry wit were always a welcome relief. 
Melody was proud of her family- I heard a lot about each of them during the times that we spent together at research conferences and on the evenings that our little group of  UTHSC PhD candidates would get together. A gathering that Melody affectionately called GDO- Granny's Day Out :) The picture attached is of Melody and me in Dallas TX - Gucci store, after a meeting.  I hate to think of the sales this man missed while entertaining us. How I will miss her!

Melody was a beloved member of the National Board of Directors for One by One Ministries. She was always willing to add her expertise in ways that benefited the lives of moms and their babies. I was privileged to serve along side her for her years on the Board. She lived her faith and was a great example for us all. My sympathies to her family. May they feel the peace and presence of the Lord during this time. Barbara Lowry

The most sincere and caring person that I had the pleasure of knowing. Thank God for letting our paths cross. Love you Mel❤️❤️❤️

Melody was the best colleague and friend anyone could ask for. Sending positive thoughts and wishes of peace and comfort to all family and friends of Melody. 

Melody and I served together on the One By One Board for several years. Melody was such a blessing to the ministry and it was a privilege to know her. I am so very sorry for Melody’s family.  There are no words at a time like this. But know that many lives were changed for the better because of knowing her; and you are all in our prayers…
Britainy Sholl

Melody had a quiet, strong spirit.  She was always willing to help and assist her colleagues when asked (even when her load was heavy).  She was knowledgeable in her field and challenged students to be their very best in the taking care of patients.  She will be missed by us here at UTHSC College of Nursing in the DNP program where I worked.  Her work ethic and empathy cannot be denied.  May God bless you during this time.  My prayers are with you and your boys.  
Sharon Little , DNP
UTHSC College of Nursing 

Melody was a dear friend and colleague at UTHSC College of Nursing where she is desperately missed by faculty, staff, and students. I will always cherish the memories of working  together with her, not only in the college, but also on the  national board of   One by One Ministries where she shared her expertise in maternal child nursing to sustain the evidence based curriculum for vulnerable expectant and new Moms. I am praying for God's peace and comfort to surround Melody's husband, sons, and entire family as they mourn.
With my deepest sympathy,
Susan Jacob


To the Norris and Waller family , I send my condolences and praying for you during this difficult time . Melody will be greatly missed. One thing I know for sure your ministry on earth was well needed , and very much appreciated! You were a positive influence to so many people .We made plans for lunch at the first of the year …..All I can say is… “Friendddddd”( in your voice ) you beat me to the table ! I love you. Rest in love my sweet friend . ❤️

Blessed are those who mourn , for they will be comforted . 
Matthew 5:4

To the Norris and Waller Family, I am truly heartbroken over the loss of Melody. She was my very first friend in life. All of my childhood memories involve calling her to see if she could come out and play, skating, riding the school bus, kickball, and playing jacks or board games on the front porch. She was a beautiful soul and she will be dearly missed. Please accept my deepest condolences.

OBITUARY

Melody Louise Norris-Waller

4 February, 1979 – 6 February, 2022

M. J. Edwards Stage Road Chapel

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