Lathel Lee Norris

Lathel "Lee" Norris passed away Thursday, March 26, 2026 at Brenham Nursing and Rehab Center in Brenham. Funeral services are scheduled for 10 a.m., Wednesday, April 1, 2026 at Bethlehem Lutheran Church of William Penn, with Pastor Kelly Krieg officiating. Burial will take place in the church cemetery. Visitation will be Tuesday evening from 5:00 until 7:00 p.m. at Memorial Oaks Chapel.

Born September 23, 1947, in Navasota, Texas, to Herbert and Johanna Emshoff, she was baptized, confirmed, and later married at Bethlehem Lutheran Church, where her faith remained an important part of her life. On November 30, 1969, she married George C. Norris, Jr. at Bethlehem Lutheran Church, with Rev. Paul Hartfield officiating.

Lee was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother who found great joy in caring for her family. She was a longtime 4-H leader and was passionate about helping youth and supporting agricultural programs. Alongside her husband, she was very active in showing cattle and treasured the friendships and experiences that came with it.

Lee had a special gift for sewing and quilting, which became her lifelong passion. She lovingly created quilts for family and friends, each stitched with care. She also enjoyed gardening, and planting flowers. One of her greatest joys was traveling to Florida to visit her grandsons, whom she loved dearly.

She is survived by her daughter and son-in-law, Kristy and Scott Fessenden of Fruitland Park, Florida; grandsons, Fox and Phoenix Fessenden of Fruitland Park, Florida; sister-in-law, Diane Miller of Lumberton; brother and sister-in-law, Les and Marguerite Smith; niece, Suzanne Odom and husband James; nephews, Dr. Kevin King, Matt King and wife Karen; as well as numerous great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, and extended family members.

She was preceded in death by her husband, George C. Norris, Jr.; her parents, Herbert and Johanna Emshoff; her brothers, Gordon and Daniel Emshoff; her in-laws, George Sr. and Marion Ruth Tanner Smith; and her sister-in-law, Barbara Murphy.

Family and friends will serve as pallbearers. Memorials may be directed to Bethlehem Lutheran Church of William Penn or to the American Cancer Society.

Funeral arrangements are entrusted to Memorial Oaks Chapel, 1306 W. Main Street, Brenham. To post a tribute to the family, please visit www.memorialoakschapel.com