Death Notices

SMITH, Norris James (1942-2024) - surrounded by his loving family at his home in Simcoe on Thursday, July 4th, 2024 in his 83rd year.  Cherished husband of 41+ years to Betty Smith (nee Woolley) of Simcoe.  Beloved only son of the late Herman and Gladys Smith.  Norris will be missed by his son, Todd Smith (Kathy); his daughter, Michelle Smith; his stepdaughter, Lorry Macaulay (Dan), and stepson, Terry Gibson (Margie).  He was a proud Grandpa to Taylor Avalis (A.J.) and children, Quinn and Ivy;  Jessica Gibson (Kyle) and son, Arthur;  Andrea Gibson and daughter, August;  Duncan Macaulay (Carleigh); and Dean Macaulay.  Norris will also be sadly missed by Betty’s family, the late Robert Woolley (Jean), Dorothy McKinnon, Diane Whitside (Bruce), and Brian Woolley (Laura).  He was one of the best uncles to Barry (Anne Marie), James (Amy), Hillary (Greg), Justin (Kelly), Brennan (Kelsey), Madison (Gareth), and Halle; and great-uncle to Rebecca (Brett), Cameron (Abbey), Callen, Tessa, Max, and Elis.  Norris made a difference to everyone he met along his life journey, whether it was working in tobacco, catching a softball first for the Waterford Oldtimers and then the Vittoria Oldtimers, throwing strikes in the Waterford Men’s Bowling League, hitting the greens at Woodside Golf Club, or helping Robert with maple syrup on the Woolley farm.  An educator for the Norfolk, and the Grand Erie Board of Education, Norris taught all grades from kindergarten to secondary school and he was respected by both his students and fellow colleagues.  After retiring from teaching, Norris first delivered flowers for Ryerse Garden Gallery and then joined the staff of the Jason Smith Funeral Chapel.  Norris believed in keeping his feet firmly on the ground so no heights for him.  He preferred going on bus tours, especially those to Nashville where he enjoyed listening to his favourite genre, Country Music. Even against all odds, he remained a faithful fan of the Toronto Maple Leafs and the Toronto Blue Jays.  Norris was an involved member of the Woodhouse United Church and Woodhouse Cemetery Board. He also took an active role in the Fishing Club in Waterford and the Norfolk Sports Hall of Recognition.  In short, he always helped where he was needed and where he could make a difference.  Norris will always be remembered for his sense of humour and that twinkle in his eye. The world is a better place because he was part of it.  Friends are invited to share their memories of Norris with his family at the JASON SMITH FUNERAL CHAPEL, 689 Norfolk St. North Simcoe for visitation of Monday, July 8th, 2024 from 2:00 – 4:00 & 6:00 – 8:00 p.m.  A funeral will be held in the chapel on Tuesday morning at 11:00 a.m. with LLWL Heather King officiating.  Interment:  Woodhouse United Cemetery.  Those wishing to donate in memory of Norris are asked to consider the Woodhouse United Cemetery Board.  Personal online condolences at www.smithfuneralchapel.com (519) 426-0199