Florence Norris passed from this life July 25, 2014 in Silver City, NM.

A graveside services will be held Friday, August 1, 2014 at 10 o'clock in the morning at Cliff/Gila Mesa Cemetery. Services will be officiated by Floyd Robertson of the Church of Christ.

Florence was born November 7, 1931 to George Adolphus Holman and Dixie Lee Davis in Kerens, TX. The family traveled to California to work in the shipyards during World War II. Some of her early memories included sleeping in the car with her sister Dorthy during trips to and from various places the family lived during this time. Her mom and dad camped along the way. She was very fond of her stepdad Perry Crabb who was there during her teenage years. After graduating from Carlsbad High School, she married Harold D. Norris of Cliff, NM June 1, 1949. They had 10 children; Mike (Vickie) Barbara, David, Mary Whetten (Jack), John (Jacque), Katherine Dickerson (Bob), Susan Brewster (Mike) and Tom. They had two children, Baby and James who died in infancy. Florence was a wonderful and nurturing mother, grandmother and great-grandmother. She had 12 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren. Her accomplishments included working as a cook at Cliff School. Many students remember her rolls and chicken and dumplings which were expectionally delicious. She also was an EMT, 4-H leader, teacher, librarian and Cowboy Reunion organizer. She was an avid reader, especially of history. Her gardening and canning provided her family and friends many healthy meals. Her craving for knowledge led her to study hard and received a bachelor's degree in Academic Studies and a master's degree in Education. Many students credit some of their academic success to her dedication as an educator. She taught at Cliff School and at WNMU (history and English)

She is survived by eight children and their families, her sister Dorthy Elders and many nieces and nephews.

She is preceded in death by her husband of 53 years, her parents, two children and two grandchildren; Buddy Norris and David Whetten.

Serving as pallbearers are her four sons; Mike, David, John and Tom as well as sons-in-law Jack Whetten, Bob Dickerson and grandson Justin Whetten. Honorary pallbearers are Curly Norris and Wayne Welburn. She told her family she wanted "a party, more than a funeral". Donations to your church or health organization would be appreciated.

Entrusted to the care of Baca's Funeral Chapels