Jane Malpass Norris

Jane Malpass Norris – devoted wife, mother, and Grammy – passed away on March 29, 2025, in Columbia, South Carolina. Born to Harris and Cleta Malpass on August 2, 1942, in Wilmington, North Carolina, Jane spent her childhood at Wrightsville Beach with her sisters and friends. She graduated from New Hanover High School in 1960 and UNC–Wilmington in 1962, which is where she met her husband, Merle. She described him as “the most handsome boy” when she spotted him in her history class and decided she would marry him. Their 60-year marriage was blessed with 3 children, 9 grandchildren, and 3 great-grandchildren.

Jane was devoted to her family and spent countless hours cheering on her children and grandchildren while they played sports and participated in their favorite activities. Nothing made her happier than spending time with her family. She loved her family, the beach, the mountains, traveling, and a good margarita. When residing in Columbia, she was an active member of Seven Oaks Presbyterian Church where she taught preschool for many years. After retiring to West Jefferson, NC, in 1994, she became an active member of Mount Jefferson Presbyterian Church where she enjoyed supporting children’s activities.

Jane is preceded in death by her husband Merle. She is survived by her children Tammy Baxley (Bobby) and Brad Norris (Pam) of Chapin, SC, and Rodney Norris (Nina) of Rogersville, TN; grandchildren Corey Norris, Cole Baxley (Hannah), Mary Courtney Warren (Dion), Joshua Baxley, Riley Norris, Anna Baxley, Jack Norris, Catherine Norris, and Carlee Norris; and great-grandchildren Zeke Warren, Joie Warren, and Sammy Baxley.

A celebration of life and memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, April 5, at Seven Oaks Presbyterian Church. The family will receive friends from 1:00–2:00 p.m. at the church prior to the service. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorials be made to The Alzheimer’s Association.