R. Norman Harris

R. Norman Harris passed away on June 10, 2023. He was born January 31, 1938, In Vero Beach, Florida, son of Ralph Edgar Harris and Bessie Steel Harris. He is survived by his wife, Nancy L. Harris and children, Ronald Norman Harris (Marcela) of Australia and Sarah Harris Cannon (Jonny) of Raleigh. The five grandchildren include Jordan Harris (Charlotte), Jessica Harris (San Diego, CA), Seth Cannon (Raleigh), Jesse Cannon (Kelly) of Athens, GA, and Jericho Cannon Musselwhite (John) of Kannapolis. He is further survived by two sisters, Nina Ettinger (Sebastian, FL) and Karen Harris Wise (Chuck) (McGrady, NC). In addition, there are two sister-in-laws, Brenda Lewis and Judy Rhoads (Jerry) of Kentucky and many nieces and nephews.

Norman grew up in Vero Beach, FL. He received his undergraduate degree from Murray State College, Murray, KY. He attained his Master's degree at Stetson University, Deland, Florida and Doctor of Education from the University of Florida. He served as 2nd Lt in the U.S. Army. He taught in public schools in Florida and served as administrator in Travelers Rest, SC and Iredell County, NC. After retiring, he served as Dean at Garner Webb University, Statesville, NC campus.

​​Well respected in the community, he was a former member of Rotary Club where he was awarded the Paul Harris Fellow. A member of the First Presbyterian Church, Statesville, he served as elder and was a member of the Young Men's Bible Class. He served as a board member on Good News Corporation, Crosby Scholars, Iredell Museum, Partnership for Young Children, and Concert Association. Professionally, he was a member of Iredell/Statesville Retired School Personnel (NEA) and NC Retired Governmental Employees Association.

​Norman will be missed by many that he influenced in education. He had a sense of humor that brought many smiles. His leadership style of quiet demeanor demonstrated support and caring. He had many interests that included the American Indian Culture, gardening, art, music, and sports. He was family centered and will be remembered fondly.

Funeral arrangements are by Troutman Funeral Home, Troutman, NC. The Celebration of Life will be June 20, 2023, at First Presbyterian Church, Statesville, at 2:00 pm. Visitation will be held June 19th from 5:00 pm until 7:00 pm at First Presbyterian Church, Fellowship Room located at the back of the church. Memorials may be made to Young Men's Bible Class Scholarship fund, 125 N. Meeting St, Statesville, NC 28677 or to Iredell Christian Ministries, PO Box 86, Statesville, NC 28687.