James Michael Norris

Honoring the Life of James Michael Norris February 13, 1950-May 14, 2026

James "Jim" Michael Norris passed away peacefully in his sleep on May 14, 2026 after a brief illness.

Jim was born to Bill and Betty Norris in Portsmouth, Virginia. His dad was a veteran of WWIl and loved to sing gospel music. His older brother Skip served in the WAF and had a son, Mac.

Jim was married to his loving wife Kim who took care of their three children Jeff, Julie, and Jamie. Julie blessed him with his beloved granddaughter, Chloe, and Jamie blessed him with his beloved grandson, Jaxon. Jamie's husband Dan served his country for 20 years and spent time in Iraq.

Jim and Kim graduated from Cramerton High School in Cramerton, NC. Jim played high school basketball and Kim was a cheerleader. Jim went on to play college basketball at Montreat-Anderson Jr. College. They both graduated from Appalachian State University in Boone, NC and both taught in the Catawba County School System. He finished his career after coaching basketball at Startown Elementary, Blackburn Middle, and finally at Fred T. Foard High School.

Jim served his Lord through his teaching and coaching. He always told his student athletes to always put Jesus Christ first in their lives, then family, then education, and their chosen athletics last. He always felt like he was blessed to have been able to teach and coach and work with some of the finest teachers and students he ever knew.

Jim is survived by his loving wife of 55 years, Kim Norris, his son Jeff Norris (Lindsay) and his daughter Jamie Norris Alford (Dan), and his beloved grandchildren Chloe Watson and Jaxon Alford.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Bill and Betty Norris, his brother, Skip Norris, and his daughter, Julie Norris Mosley.

Family and friends will gather for visitation from 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm on Sunday, May 17, 2026 at Withers & Whisenant Funeral Home. A Memorial Service will follow at 4:00 pm.

Withers and Whisenant Funeral Home and Cremation Service, 2916 Union Road, Gastonia, NC (704) 864-5144 is serving the family.

Online condolences may be made at: www.withersandwhisenantfuneral.com