ROCKINGHAM — Mrs. Norma Gwen Garris, 92, of Rockingham, North Carolina, went to be with her Lord and Savior the morning of Wednesday, March 29, 2023, surrounded by her loving family.
Norma was the daughter of the late Elisha Baxley and Josie Terry Baxley. She was born in Rockingham, North Carolina, Nov. 3, 1930.
Along with her parents, Norma is predeceased by her husband of 41 years, Reid Garris; and her beloved daughter, Gay Garris Rhyne.
Having being born and raised in Richmond County, Norma graduated from Rockingham High School in 1948. Norma would go on to further her academic career by
attending the Woman’s College of the University of North Carolina. Following her graduation, Norma was hired by J.P. Stevens & Company in 1950 where she continued as their employee until her retirement in 1985 in the role of assistant to the plant manager.
Along with her dedication to her work life, Norma was a dedicated woman to her faith. Norma was a lifetime member of Roberdell United Methodist Church in Rockingham. Norma and her late husband Reid were the last couple to be married in the church’s previous site in 1954 before its relocation to its present building.
Norma is survived by her son, Kyle Garris (Paige) of Wilmington, North Carolina; grandchildren, Natalie Rhyne and Heath Rhyne both of Rockingham; as well as many friends and extended family who will miss her dearly.
A visitation will be held Saturday, April 1, from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. at Roberdell United Methodist Church. A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. Sunday, April 2, at the church with Dr. Allison Farrah officiating.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to either Roberdell Methodist Church, 1302 Roberdell Road, Rockingham, NC 28379; or Richmond County Hospice, 1119 N U.S. Hwy 1, Rockingham, NC 28379.
Online condolences may be made at watson-kingfuneralhome.com. Watson-King Funeral Home in Rockingham is serving the Garris family.
