Gary Norton

Gary Norton, 88, of Houston, Texas, passed away peacefully on February 11, 2026. He will be remembered for his generosity, intellect, integrity, faith, and heartfelt kindness. Above all, Gary was an unwavering optimist who approached life with gratitude, resilience, and quiet strength.

Born in Chattanooga, Tennessee, to George and Elaine Norton, Gary moved in sixth grade to Houston with his parents and brother Lew. From a young age, he learned the value of hard work and education, helping support his family while working as a paperboy, accounting clerk, typist, geological draftsman, and computer programmer. He graduated from Rice University in 1959 with a degree in Economics, and from The University of Texas School of Law in 1963 where he was a member of Chancellors, the Order of the Coif, and the Law Review. After law school, Gary and Deirdre married and moved to Corpus Christi where they lovingly raised daughters, Kelly and Polly.

Gary dedicated 54 years to the practice of law, primarily as a civil defense trial attorney. He later brought his litigation expertise to public service in Austin as an Assistant Attorney General in the Consumer Protection Division of the Texas Attorney General’s Office. He was passionate about the law for its intellectual challenge and the opportunity to advocate for others. As a mentor, he valued and appreciated the next generation of lawyers, and brought people together who could help one another.

Gary’s presence and encouragement in his family’s lives were a profound gift. His perseverance and selfless devotion to others were evident throughout his life. In times of crisis, Gary was the one everyone called on. He consistently rose to the occasion, calmly navigating even the most difficult situations with skill, wisdom, and steady resolve. He was a tireless advocate for the less fortunate and loyal beyond measure. He made courageous decisions without fear of consequence, guided by his unwavering commitment to justice and fairness.

Gary’s faith was a foundation for his life. He was a devoted member of Parkway Presbyterian Church in Corpus Christi, where he served as a ruling elder and member of the Session for several terms. He treasured sharing meals with family and friends. Gary had a wonderful laugh, a lovable sense of humor, and a welcoming smile and handshake that put others at ease. He cherished time with his grandchildren and fostered their love of reading through his tradition of selecting special books for birthdays.

In his later years, Gary’s optimism never faltered. Even on difficult days, when asked how he was doing, he would reply with a broad smile, “Better than a human being deserves to be.”

Gary is survived by daughters, Kelly Andrea Norton Fischer, Polly Anne Norton Schott (Ken); grandchildren, Grant and Reid Fischer, Kevin and Katie Schott; Deirdre Spann; many beloved nieces and nephews; and extended family. He is predeceased by George and Elaine Norton, and Lew Norton (Val). A memorial tribute to honor and celebrate Gary will be held at a future date in Houston among family and friends.