Thursday, November 19, 2020

It is with sadness that UNCW shares the news of the passing of Fletcher Norris on Nov. 12, 2020. 

Norris joined the UNCW faculty in 1970, teaching mathematics, statistics and computer science courses. Along with two other faculty members, he designed, implemented and taught the first courses in the new computer science curriculum, which became a new major, chartering the new computer science department. 

Upon retiring from UNCW in 1999, the Fletcher Norris Endowed Scholarship in Computer Science was established, benefitting many students over the years. He was elected to membership in The Order of Isaac Bear, an organization that recognizes those who have demonstrated loyalty to UNCW, contributed to the academic quality of the university or had a significant role in uniting the institution and the community.

Norris had a great love of music, singing with the Cape Fear Chordsmen and playing with various music groups including “The School Boys,” which is composed of UNCW faculty members.

He is survived by his wife of 60 years Janis Anne Cobb; daughter Kathryn (Katy) Norris McManus (husband Jeff); son David Cobb Norris (wife Vicki), as well as several grandchildren and a step-grandson.

His obituary may be read online. Memorial gifts may be made to the Fletcher Norris Scholarship in Computer Science at UNCW.