Barbara Jean Norris

Barbara Purvis Norris went to her eternal home on Sunday, July 24, 2022. She was born on January 1, 1934 to Mary Viser and Edwin Purvis. A native Houstonian, she graduated from Reagan High in 1952 and from the Lillie Jolly School of Nursing in 1955. Over the course of the next four decades, Barbara worked for Memorial Hermann Hospital, demonstrating a passion for serving her patients and a resilient spirit. She retired after 42 years in the operating room.

While she held tremendous pride in her long-tenured nursing career, Barbara’s role as mother was the joy of her life. Barbara will be greatly missed by her two daughters, Sharon Lynn Norris and Donna Kay Gruetzmacher. She was a member of First Methodist Houston, and a long-time member of her beloved Epworth Sunday school class. Her faith and belief in Jesus was strong, and she brought her girls to church every week, discipling them and laying a firm foundation of faith for them. After her retirement, she volunteered in the attendance office of the church.

Barbara adored her family, often seeking opportunities to demonstrate her love for them. She was a talented seamstress and enjoyed making beautiful clothing for her children and grandchildren. Barbara was preceded in death by her parents and her sisters, Betty Wells and Geraldine Purvis. Barbara is survived by her daughters, Sharon Norris and Donna Gruetzmacher, son-in-law, CAPT Jeffrey Gruetzmacher, USN, retired, grandson, LCDR Jeffrey Gruetzmacher, USN, and his wife, Jordan, granddaughter, Emily Spencer, and her husband, Steve, and great-grandchildren, Shepherd Spencer, Poppy Spencer, and Jack Gruetzmacher.

A private graveside service will be held at Brookside Memorial Cemetery with Reverend Ann Spears officiating.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.pathfoleyfuneraldirectors.com for the Norris family.