Stewart Glenn Norris

With deep faith, we celebrate Stewart Glenn Norris’ passing as he is now peacefully resting in the arms of our Lord. Stewart was called home on November 19, 2024. He was a gentle person with a quiet demeanor, who preferred to listen more than speak. Though reserved in nature he had a heart full of love for his family and community of Elizabethtown, NC. He was born on May 26, 1943, and passed at the age of 81. This is a testimony of God’s goodness in granting the tenacity, discipline, and perseverance that enabled him to live a full and meaningful life despite the challenges of living with Type 1 Diabetes for over 65 years.

 Stewart learned early the art of working with his hands. As a young boy, his fascination with moving metal parts led him from maintenance of equipment on the family farm to building and racing his drag car he named “The Fugitive.” His mechanical expertise led him from a career in Industrial machinery to later serving the community as owner of the NAPA Auto Parts store and the Bladen County NCDMV License Plate Agency. Stewart readily shared his passion of cars by always having a car garage or a “shop” where all were welcome to seek advice, work alongside him, use his equipment or just have shop talk. Over his life, he built and restored numerous car models “from the ground up.” Needing no paper to prove it, Stewart was considered by all to be a true Master Mechanic. Though he rarely traveled far from Bladen County, some of his fondest memories are with his family and friends attending nearby Car Shows and NASCAR races. 

 Stewart worked out his faith in all areas of service at White’s Creek Baptist Church where he was a lifelong member. His devotion to God and His word was evident in his service to his church family and community. His life leaves a ripple effect that will continue to impact his friends, community, and any who had the privilege to know him.

All through the years, Stewart was loyal and devoted to his surviving wife, Gail, the love of his life for over sixty years. Through his actions, beliefs, and teachings, he leaves a lasting presence yet unfillable void to his daughters: Kim (Gary) Pope of Wilmington, NC, Suzanne (John) Pio of Kure Beach, NC as well as his grandchildren, Morgan (Andrew) Carson, Sydney (Brady) Zomer, Hannah and Jake Pio. His great-grandchildren: Bryce, Malia, Addison, and Brooks, who will also greatly miss their Papa.

 Stewart is also survived by his brothers: Bobby Joe (Judy) Norris of Pleasant Gardens, NC, Allen (Barbie) Norris, and Charlie (Faye) Norris, of Elizabethtown, NC.

 He was preceded in joining Christ by his parents, Jack and Beulah Norris, his brother and sister-in-law, Tommy and Shelbia Norris and his sister, Barbara Ann who also passed from Type 1 Diabetes at the age of 12. 

 To honor and celebrate his life the service will be at White’s Creek Baptist Church, 6062 Mercer Mill Road, Clarkton, NC on Friday, November 22, 2024, at 11:00 am. A viewing will be held from 10:00 am until 10:45 am prior to the service.  Burial will follow the service in the White's Creek Baptist Church Cemetery.  The family will receive friends and guests after the graveside service has completed across the road at the church in the Magnolia Building.

 Stewart’s family wishes to express their sincere gratitude for your compassion, presence, and support during this difficult time. Your prayers and loving visits meant so much to Stewart and brought him much comfort during his final days. In addition, we wish to thank Trinity Grove staff for their unconditional love and care they provided over the last few months.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Breakthrough T1D (Formerly JDRF) in his memory at the following website: https://www.breakthrought1d.org/ways-to-give/ 

Condolences and cards may be sent to Gail Norris, P.O. Box 91, Elizabethtown, NC 28337.