Joseph Francis Norris

Joe was one of 10 children born to George and Alma (Carlise) Norris and grew up in the small towns Mooringsport and Vivian in Louisiana. Joe served in the U.S. Navy for four years and then re-enlisted for an additional four years in the U.S. Army.

Joe is survived by his wife Lynette (Chidester) Norris whom he married on December 11, 2004. In 1961, Joe wed the former Ronda Tyson to whom he was married for 40 years. Ronda passed away in 2002. Joe is survived by his and Ronda’s three daughters, Desi (Paul) Kennedy, Renee Craft and Danielle Norris as well as 12 grandchildren and 9 great-grandchildren. Joe is also survived by two siblings, his sister Norma (Lev) Morris and brother George “Bud” (Mary) Norris, and his brothers-in-law Fred (Carol) Chidester, Paul Tyson, Joe (Leslie) Tyson and many nieces, nephews and other relatives.

Upon completing his degree at Dallas Baptist College, Joe became a minister in the Southern Baptist Church where he shared his love of scripture with many congregations across the country. In his younger years, Joe was fond of fishing and perfected his for fried catfish. Throughout his ministry, he became famous for the fish fries he organized for dozens of churches.

After retiring, Joe and Lynette loved the adventure of traveling to new places. They enjoyed several cruises and vacations in Europe, the Caribbean, Mexico, and Hawaii.

A celebration of Joe’s life will be held on April 27, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. at Northlawn United Methodist Church; 1157 Northlawn St. NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49505. . The family will receive friends an hour prior to the service. Military Honors will be provided by the Kent County Veterans Honor Guard.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to Hospice of Michigan.