Deborah Jeannine Norris

Deborah Jeannine Norris age 72 of Gillette Wyoming passed away peacefully surrounded by her family at home on March 11, 2025 following a courageous battle with Cancer. Deb was born in Gillette, Wyoming, on January 26, 1953 to Fred and Neta Brennan. She grew up with her Identical twin sister Dottie Washut (Ken Washut) on the family homesteaded ranch in Rozet. She married the love of her life, Chas Norris, on November 2, 1973, and together they built a beautiful life, raising three children: Tanya Allee (Travis Hurm), Krista Terry (Shawn Terry), and Dustin Norris (Kayla Norris). Her love and legacy continued through her cherished grandchildren—Sadi Allee (Justice Hackworth), Grady Baird, Kaylee Terry, Braik Hurm, Aspen Baird, Braydnn Terry, Charlie Hurm, Addyson Norris, Deni Hurm, Rylee, and Hayzen Norris—as well as her great-grandchild, Hazel Maul.

Debbie’s greatest joy in life was her family, and nothing filled her heart more than being a grandmother. She wasn’t just a grandma; she was their fiercest supporter, their most dedicated fan, and their unwavering source of love. Whether cheering from the sidelines at a sports game, clapping proudly at a 4-H competition, or offering gentle encouragement before a big event, she made sure each grandchild knew they were deeply loved and endlessly supported. Rain, snow, or shine—she was there, with the brightest smile, bursting with pride for every accomplishment, big or small.

Her home was always open, a place of warmth, love, and, of course, the best homemade treats. She had a gift for making everything special—holidays were filled with magic, summer days were spent in the garden or the ranch, and every visit to Grandma’s house meant leaving with a full heart and probably a plate of something delicious. No one could beat her oatmeal Carmeletta’s, melt-in-your-mouth sugar cookies, light and airy angel food cake, or her perfectly baked brownies. But more than the food, it was the love she poured into everything she did that made those moments so unforgettable.

Beyond the kitchen, she had a knack for bringing people together. She knew the importance of family and friendships and made sure that every gathering, no matter how small, felt like a celebration. Whether it was a simple backyard BBQ, a post-game victory meal, playing cards or dominos, or just an afternoon spent laughing with loved ones, she created an atmosphere of warmth and joy that made everyone feel like they belonged.

Debbie lived a life of quiet strength and unwavering kindness. She worked hard in everything she did—whether as a stay-at-home mom, a ranch hand, or in her many other roles in preschool education, bookkeeping, hospitality, and general caregiving. But her true calling was in the way she cared for her family, friends and neighbors. She had a heart so full of love that it extended beyond her children and grandchildren to the many "bonus" kids and grandkids she took under her wing. To know her was to be loved, encouraged, and reminded that you were capable of anything.

Her legacy is written in the lives she touched—the lessons she taught, the traditions she passed down, and the love she shared so freely. Though our hearts ache in her absence, we find comfort in knowing that her spirit will always be with us. She will forever be in the roar of a cheering crowd, in the smell of something sweet baking in the oven, in the blooming of a garden, and in every hug that lingers just a little longer.

Deb was preceded in death by her husband Chas Norris, her parents Fred and Neta Brennan, in-laws Charles and Coral Norris, her older sister Nadine and her husband Ted Gassin, her niece Tammy Washut and grandson Coyle Love. She left behind multiple nieces, nephews and an ever growing list of loved ones.

We ask all to gather with us to honor the life of a truly extraordinary woman—one whose love, strength, and kindness shaped the lives of everyone lucky enough to know her. Visitation be held at Gillette Memorial Chapel on Monday March 17, 2025 at 6pm followed by a prayer/vigil service at 7pm. Services will be held at St. Matthews Catholic Church on Tuesday March 18, 2025 at 1pm with burial and fellowship to follow. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations made to the Cancer Care Committee in honor of Deb Norris. Memorials and condolences may be sent in care of Gillette Memorial Chapel 210 West 5th Street, Gillette, WY 82716. Condolences may also be expressed at www.gilllettememorialchapel.com

Rest peacefully, dear mother, grandmother, and friend. Your love and light will never fade.