Norris E. Smith

Norris Smith, owner of the former Smith Clothing Store in Decatur, passed away on Monday, March 1, 2021, at Bronson Hospital in Kalamazoo. Arrangements have been entrusted to Newell Chapel Funeral Home. He was born to Harley and Maleta (Goble) Smith on January 7, 1933. He lived in Decatur his entire life and graduated from Decatur High School. He honorably served his Country in the United States Army, having served during the Korean Conflict. On July 3, 1965, he married Eleanor Puhl in Decatur. Norris closed his clothing store and retired in 1998. He was a member of the First Presbyterian Church of Decatur for 76 years. Norris’ family meant the world to him, he is survived by his loving wife, Eleanor Smith; his children, David Smith, Debra Leighton, Teri (Chris) Vitale, Bruce Smith and daughter-in-law, Gina (Bob) Rokos; grandchildren, Jennifer (Jason), Jacob (Bri), Lucas (Sally) Alexandria, Kori (Tim), Danielle, Gavin, Masen, and Mckenzie; great-grandchildren, Jadyn, Ian, Liliana, Izaiah, Parker, Evelyn and Maddox; nephews, Larry (Mandy) Smith, Scott (Theresa) Smith and Ronald Neubauer; niece, Pam (Steve) Wilcox; and sister-in-law, Marian Smith. Norris was preceded in death by his son, Todd Leighton; parents, Harley and Maleta Smith; brother, Douglas and sister, Virginia. A Celebration of Life Service will be held on Thursday, May 13, 2021, at 11:00AM at Newell Chapel 83313 M-51, Decatur with Pastor James Abshagen officiating. Burial will follow at Lakeside Cemetery with Military Honors. Friends may visit with the family from 10:30AM until the time of service at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made to First Presbyterian Church of Decatur. Those wishing to leave a condolence for the family may do so at www.newellchapel.com.