Derrel Norris

Derrel Paul Norris was born September 16th, 1946, in Dallas to Lester T. and Daisy Norris.

Derrel was a 1965 graduate of South Oak Cliff High School and received his Associate of Business degree from Dallas Community College.

He married the love of his life DeJuan on December 30th 1983.

Derrel grew up in South Oak Cliff and after graduation he enlisted in the United States Navy. He began his service in November of 1965 and served two tours in Vietnam from 1967 to 1969 as a Seabee Electrician (part of the ‘Fighting 40th’).  Derrel received numerous commendations while serving and was honorably discharged in 1969.  Derrel retired from IBM in 1994 after a 30-year career as a Customer Engineer, receiving several awards during his career with IBM.  His Brother Denny and many of his lifelong friends also worked in IT at IBM and EDS.

He is survived by his wife of over 40 years, DeJuan Norris; his children Paula Coleman and husband Ian, Paul Norris, Lynda Larson and husband Wayne; his grandchildren Hillary Hunter and husband Jordan, Jordon, Isabella (Ella) Coleman, Ryan, Kayla (Kei), Ariannah (Rae), Leah, Aidan, Audrey, Ronan, Cael, Evelyn and Findley Larson; his great granddaughter Landry Hunter; his sisters Martha Sue Christy and husband Don, Leslie Corley and husband Robert; his brothers James Brent Norris and wife Debbie, Randy Norris and Michael Norris; and many nieces and nephews and his fur baby Sheba.

Derrel was preceded in death by parents Lester T. and Daisy Norris; his sister May Vonne Deans, brothers Lester Keith, David Neal, Dennis Allan Norris. Niece Teena Cheri Humphrey and nephews Ricky Doyle Deans and Larry David Hurt.

Derrel had many hobbies including hunting, fishing, camping, listening to old country music, spending time with family and friends playing cards, dominoes, pool and shuffleboard.  He also enjoyed reading and crossword puzzles.

All he met quickly became friends for life.  His personality was larger than life. He had a quick wit and the perfect combination of book smarts and street smarts. He was unforgettable.