Family and friends mourn the loss of Rodney Lee Norris, a man of many passions and talents. Today, however, several childhood friends are tossing around a football and making Three Stooges jokes with him in heaven. He was born on August 5th, 1956, in Bryan, Texas, to Maldon and Ernestine Norris. Rodney attended school and played sports in San Saba, impressing everyone with his athletic abilities. From high school football to tennis and weightlifting, he played with a fire that lit up the field. As a San Saba Varsity Tri-Captain, he was named 1973 All-District Guard and 1973-74 Prep- All American Football player in high school, and 1974 Mr. Football.
But Rodney's passions extended beyond sports. He earned a degree in Accounting from Texas State University in 1978 and practiced as a Certified Public Accountant. And when he wasn't crunching numbers, you could find him in the country tending to cattle and goats, enjoying Rough Creek, and raising his children on the Norris Ranch.
Rodney's relationships were the cornerstone of his life. His high school friends remained close until the very end, and his seven grandkids brought him endless joy. He is survived by his mother, Ernestine Norris; his two daughters, Melissa Gipson and Raeven Alonzo (Eric Alonzo), and his son, John Norris. He is also survived by his brother, Dwayne Norris (Toni Norris); his sister, Debra Berryhill (Robert Berryhill); seven grandchildren, four nephews, one niece, and one aunt, Melba Jean Thompson. He was preceded in death by his father, Maldon Norris, and one son, Patrick Wayne Norris.
We honor Rodney's life, a life that touched so many others. Though he is no longer with us, his spirit lives on in the memories we hold dear. A memorial service was held in his honor at Blaylock Funeral Home in San Saba, Texas, on Thursday, June 29th, 2023, at 2:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the First Baptist Church of San Saba.
Rest in peace, Rodney. Your memory will live on in of all those who knew and loved you.