Kenneth Eugene Norris, 94, of Richmond, passed away Tuesday, August 4, 2026, at Oak Ridge Assisted Living in Richmond.
Kenneth was born on March 2, 1932, in Rayville, the son of Glen E. and Elsie Mae (Swafford) Norris. He was first united in marriage to Ada Pearl Armstrong of Richmond on June 13, 1953; to this union, his four children were born; they later divorced. He was later united in marriage to Mary Ellen Bauer of Versailles in 1972; she preceded him in death in 2013. He then was married to Nancy Lee (Meeker) Shockley of Richmond; she preceded him on March 17, 2026.
Survivors include: son, John William (Emily) Norris of Rayville; two daughters, Brenda Ellen (Jim) Richardson and Patty (Dennis) Estes, both of Richmond; seven grandchildren: Misty (Karemm) Spears, Jason Richardson, Katie (Eric) Hogan, Simon (Michelle) Estes, Colene (Zach) Zeeman, Sara Smith, and Haley Smith; nine great-grandchildren; seven great-great-grandchildren; sister, Lora Francis McGaugh of Richmond; several nieces, nephews, and other extended family members also survive.
He was preceded in death by his parents, wives, infant daughter, Tina Marie Norris, and sister, Betty Jean Norris.
Kenneth was raised and educated in the Rayville and Elkhorn communities, where he learned the value of hard work at an early age. He first worked for Nutrena Mills and later spent many years as a truck driver for Associated Grocers before retiring. In addition to his trucking career, Kenneth owned and managed rental properties and took great pride in raising cattle and hogs on his farm.
A true jack-of-all-trades, Kenneth had a gift for building, repairing, and restoring just about anything. Whether he was doing carpentry, constructing houses and barns, refurbishing old items; there was very little beyond his abilities. He often encouraged others with one of his favorite sayings: “You can do anything if you put your mind to it.” As a young man, he enjoyed showing hogs, traveling by rail throughout the Midwest to livestock shows, creating memories and friendships that lasted a lifetime.
Kenneth also looked forward to spending his winters in Texas, but no matter where he was, his greatest joy was his family. He was always there for his children and grandchildren, never hesitating to lend a helping hand, share his knowledge, or tackle a project alongside them. His quiet strength, willingness to help, and steady example left a lasting impression on all who knew him. Kenneth was a man of the Christian faith who lived by the values of hard work, perseverance, and caring for those he loved.
The family suggests memorial contributions be made to the Eagleton Center in Richmond. They can be left at or mailed to Thurman Funeral Home, 507 East Main Street-P.O. Box 190, Richmond, MO 64085.
Visitation with funeral services will be held on Sunday, August 9, 2026, at Thurman Funeral Home in Richmond, with visitation beginning at 2:00 P.M., with services to follow at 3:00 P.M. Burial will be in Richmond Memory Gardens. Please remember to share your memories of Kenneth with the family by visiting www.thurmanfuneralhome.com.
Source: KMZU, The Farm
