Bette Norris

Born in Schenectady, New York on October 9, 1950

Departed on August 23, 2018

Bette Ann Norris passed away on August 23 after a long and courageous battle with cancer. Bette was born in Schenectady, New York and lived in several states before attending high school in Deland, Florida and college in Daytona Beach, Florida. She resided in Nashville since the mid-1980s.

Bette is survived by her loving husband Charlie, her devoted sons Andrew (Randi) and William (Alex), and her sister Sandy Phillips.

Bette had a strong entrepreneurial drive, owning and operating fabric and sewing machine stores in Nashville for years. Bette later embarked on a career as a legal assistant, most recently working at HealthTrust. Even while working as a legal assistant, Bette enthusiastically sold nutrition products from home.

Bette thoroughly enjoyed entertaining, lively conversation, and world travel with Charlie.

Nothing was more important to Bette than being the best mother possible. She was extremely proud of her sons and supported them in countless ways, including instilling in them a desire to care for and love others and to live each and every day to the fullest.

Bette, kind and generous by nature, never met a stranger and had a well-developed sense of humor. When her good friend Linda came to visit Bette and see her new house, Bette picked Linda up at the airport, drove to an exclusive neighborhood, parked in front of a huge mansion with extensive grounds, and announced "Here it is."

Finally, Bette had a rich spiritual life and pondered the big questions. She firmly believed in the healing power of meditation, meditated regularly for many years, and was enriched by her meditation community. Even during her final days, Bette maintained her ever-optimistic outlook. She will forever be with us in our hearts and fond memories.

A celebration of Bette's life will be held on Friday, September 7 at The Pavilion at Harpeth Hills. Visitation will begin at 4:00 p.m. with a memorial service to follow at 6:00 p.m.