Protodeacon Gregory Norris, 90, fell asleep in the Lord here on Thursday, June 25, 2020. He was attached in retirement to the Cathedral of Saint Seraphim of Sarov, Dallas, TX.
Born September 29, 1929 in Akron, OH, to Elizabeth Palmer Chappell and Edwin Arter Norris, Protodeacon Gregory was a graduate of the University of Denver, and received a Doctor of Divinity from Nashotah House Theological Seminary. Protodeacon Gregory was received into the Orthodox Church on April 23, 1994 at the Cathedral of the Holy Trinity, Chicago, IL, and ordained to the diaconate by Archbishop Job, of blessed memory, on the feast of Holy Pentecost, June 18, 2000. Protodeacon Gregory served parishes in the Chicago Deanery for many years before relocating to Dallas. Protodeacon Gregory was instrumental in acquiring from the Catholic Apostolic Church the buildings and the land now inhabited by Christ the Savior Church, Chicago, IL.
Protodeacon Gregory was an avid violist, having played in the Irving New Philharmonic Orchestra and the Mesquite Symphony Orchestra. He was a very socially conscious and compassionate man as reflected in his marching with Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. in Selma, AL.
Protodeacon Gregory is survived by several brothers: Clifford, John and Phillip Norris, numerous nieces and nephews, God-children, devoted friends. His beloved brothers William and Michael predeceased him. Services were held at the graveside at Grove Hill Cemetery due to the covid-19 pandemic.
Memorial gifts may be made to St. Seraphim Orthodox Cathedral and the North Texas Food Bank.
May Protodeacon Gregory’s memory be eternal!