Ralph Norris, 95, of Lake City, passed away peacefully on Monday morning, October 9, 2023 at the Haven Hospice – Suwannee Valley Care Center in Lake City after an extended illness. He was born in Columbia County on December 28, 1927 to the late Fred W. Norris and Lucrecia Raulerson Norris. He was a US Army Veteran, serving in Japan and Korea during the World War II era. He had many different businesses in his life; from a clothing store to even a restaurant. What he was most proud of was being a Florida Farmer, growing the best watermelons and raising some of the finest cattle in Florida. He was an avid hunter and fisherman and also enjoyed traveling, he saw all but two states during his traveling days; but most of all, he enjoyed spending time with his family and friends. He is preceded in death by his brothers, F.W. Norris and L.C. Norris; sisters, Lula Mae Yates and Cristeen Nellenbach; and his son, Keith Norris.

He is survived by his son, Freddy Norris (Debi) of Lake City; daughter, Melissa Moore (Marson) of Lake City; and sister, Irene Powell (Odis) of Jacksonville. Two grandsons, one granddaughter and two great-granddaughters also survive.

A funeral service for Mr. Norris will be conducted on Tuesday, October 17, 2023 at 11:00 A.M. in the Gateway-Forest Lawn Memorial Chapel with Dr. Mike Tatem officiating. Interment will follow in the Memorial Cemetery. The family will receive friends for a time of visitation beginning at 10:00 A.M. prior to the service at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations please be considered to Haven Hospice, 6037 W. US HWY 90, Lake City, FL, 32055.