Norma Ellis

Norma Ellis, a cherished member of her community and a beacon of inspiration for many, passed away on October 7, 2024, at the age of 83. Born on April 30, 1941, Norma's life was marked by her passion for athletics, education, and uplifting those around her.

Norma is preceded in death by her parents, Ashley Leon White and Willie Berta Cousar White; brother, Donald Leon White.

Norma is survived by her loving husband Charles Robert “Bob” Ellis; daughters, Sherry Ellis (Jeff) Crews, Ashley Ellis (Stan) Snipes; grandchildren, Sydney Crews (Francis) Lopiccolo, Elena Crews (Tyler) Brown, Addison Crews, Conner Snipes, Hamilton Snipes, and Jackson Snipes; great-grandchildren, Axel Lopiccolo, Owen Lopiccolo, and Harper Brown; and brother Robert Lynn White.

Norma was a proud alumna of Munford High School, Lambuth College, and ultimately, Memphis State University, where she earned her master’s degree. Norma made her mark as a remarkable athlete. Her dedication to sports led her to establish and cultivate the Women's Athletic program at Lambuth College in 1972, where she coached basketball, tennis, swimming, volleyball, and golf. Her achievements on the court were nothing short of extraordinary, peaking at her induction into the Lambuth College Sports Hall of Fame. Notably, she proudly won a bronze medal in the Senior Olympics for tennis and a silver medal in basketball, showcasing her tenacity and skill throughout her life.

Outside of her athletic endeavors, Norma was deeply committed to her faith, finding solace and community within the walls of New Salem Methodist Church, where she grew up, and Lambuth Memorial United Methodist Church, where she nurtured her children. She possessed a profound love for mentoring women who were incarcerated through the Prison Ministry, offering guidance and support to those in need—a testament to her kind spirit and dedication to uplifting others.

Norma's life was enriched by her shared adventures with her devoted husband, whom she stood beside for nearly 62 years. Together, they traveled the world and created lasting memories on yearly beach trips with family, their laughter echoing along the shores. Additionally, hiking Mt. LeConte with family and friends was a cherished activity, a symbol of her love for nature and togetherness.

In her quieter moments, Norma enjoyed the delicate art of scrapbooking, capturing the vibrant stories of her life and preserving memories that her loved ones will cherish forever.

Her legacy is woven deeply into the fabric of the communities she touched, and she will be remembered as a devoted wife, an inspiring coach, and a generous mentor. Norma Ellis leaves behind a profound legacy that will continue to inspire generations to come. She will be deeply missed.

In lieu of flowers the family is asking that donations be made to Jennifer Shenefelt’s Ride to End Alzheimer’s. Jenny (Ashley’s college roommate) has ridden for the past 3 years in honor of Norma and is riding this year in her memory. Donations may also be made to Alive Hospice.