Johnnie Farris Norris' Obituary
Branchville
Johnnie Farris Norris, Sr., passed away on Saturday, November 14, 2020 at the age of 95. He was a native of Branchville, SC and a graduate of the Branchville School System where he played football and baseball. He was born on June 4, 1925 to C. Morgan and Pearl Berry Norris. He married to the love of his life, Hazel Cain Norris. They had 3 children, John Jr., (Pamela), Christine (Dan) Redding, and Charlene (Tony) Negron. He is survived by 5 grandchildren, Alex Norris, Danny (Melanie) Redding, David Redding, Becky (Charles) Justice, and Mike (Brooke) Coble. He is also survived by 7 great grandchildren, Coleman Skeen, Aubrey Skeen, Kylie Skeen, Campbell Justice, Georgia Coble, Colt Coble, and Daisy Coble.
John was a member of Branchville Baptist Church where he served as Sunday school teacher, Deacon, and other various positions in the church. He was a Lay Speaker for many area churches but truly loved his time at Hunters Chapel Baptist church. He was a member of The Branchville Masonic Lodge, Gideon's, and Scottish rite.
He was a veteran of World War II, and the Korean War. He was proud and honored to serve his country and loved going to the schools to answer questions the children had about these wars.
After the war he began working for the Southern Railroad, now Norfolk Southern Corporation. After working for 45 years at the railroad, he and his wife moved to Branchville where e became involved in the town Council, member of the Tri-County Chamber of Commerce, SC Heritage Corridor, and his most precious jay was being President of the Branchville Railroad Shrine Museum, where he would give tours where Thursday, Friday and Saturday.
He is predeceased by his wife of 62 years, Hazel Norris, his parents, and 4 brothers, Tommy, Clarence, Clifford, and Carl. He is survived by one brother, Mike (Jane) Norris of St. George, and a number of nieces and nephews.
His goal in life was to share his faith in Jesus Christ and to help others that needed a helping hand. There will be a graveside service Wednesday November 18, 2020 at Ott Cemetery in Branchville at 2:00 PM with Rev. Tim Shaw officiating. The family will receive friends one hour before services at the cemetery. Memorials may be made to the Branchville Railroad Shrine Museum, P.O. Box 73 Branchville SC 29432. Online condolences can be made at www.ottfh.com
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