Fred R. Norris

Obituary For Fred R. Norris

Columbus- It is with heavy hearts, yet with God’s abiding peace that we announce the passing of Fred R. Norris, who entered eternity decisively on July 21, 2025, in Columbus OH. Born on April 17, 1948, in Youngstown, OH, to the union of Fred R. Norris Sr. and Eva Mae Hines-Norris. Fred was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend whose vibrant spirit will be cherished and remembered by all who knew him.

Fred graduated from East High School of Buffalo New York. He would return to the Youngstown area and was a steel worker at Fireline Inc., where he dedicated his days to the manufacturing industry, forging relationships as strong as the steel he worked with. Those who knew him will remember his friendly and engaging personality—Fred had a unique ability to make everyone feel seen and valued.

A man of strong beliefs and values, Fred was passionate about cultural appreciation to promote self-awareness, which was reflected in the books he read and the conversations he engaged in. He was a scholar and deep thinker, often challenging accepted perceptions to pause for further reflection. Those who passed time with him know the warmth of his humor and how he could light up any room with his straightforward and sincere demeanor.

Fred will be remembered not only for his dedication to work but for the joy he brought into every gathering. A true music lover, he found comfort in the smooth sounds of Earth, Wind & Fire, The Temptations, and the Four Tops. You could always find him enjoying his favorite old-school tunes while indulging his sweet tooth with cake, cookies or ice cream. He had a real fondness for enjoying a Wendy's frosty.

Fred's appreciation for sweets was only rivaled by his love for fishing. Whether casting a line at Grove City or enjoying a relaxing day at Sharon Woods in Columbus, Fred found his happiest moments in nature's embrace. A devoted football fan, Fred proudly cheered for the Raiders and the Ohio State University, making game days special occasions filled with laughter and camaraderie.

Fred leaves precious moments and cherished memories with his loving wife, Anita Norris; beloved mother Eva Norris, adoring daughters, Regina "Michelle" (Clay) Mangum, Ayesha Norris, and bonus children Dontrail Hall and David Hall. His legacy is emboldening as eleven grandchildren and twelve great grandchildren, along with a score of other relatives and friends, who loved him immensely, are charged with keeping his memory sustained.

As Fred crossed the celestial sands into eternity, he was reunited with father Fred Sr., sons Robert Norris, Mi'Kial Norris; bonus children Alfred Hall, Antonio Hall, Shawntee Hall, sister Bette Newell; aunt Roberta "Chicky" Ford; and niece Chara Newell, all who preceded him in death.

Join us in honoring the life of Fred R. Norris. A public viewing will be held at the Jaylex Event Center, 2110 Glenwood Ave. Youngtown, on Friday July 22, 2025, from 10:00 AM, followed by the Celebration of Life at 11:00 AM where Rev. Lewis W. Macklin II will serve as the celebrant.

Following the committal ceremony, Fred will be laid to rest in the serene meadows within Belmont Park Cemetery. Though he may no longer walk beside us, Fred's spirit and love will remain in our hearts forever. His legacy of kindness, laughter, and love will live on through those who knew and loved him.

At this time of intimate need and personal loss, the family of Fred R. Norris elected to entrust the Ministry of Comfort & Care along with Transitional After-Care Arrangements to the J. E. Washington Funeral Services, 2234 Glenwood Avenue, Youngstown, Ohio, 330.782.8500.

Don’t think of Fred as gone away
his journey’s just begun,
life holds so many facets
this earth is only one.

Just think of him as resting
from the sorrows and the tears
in a place of warmth and comfort
where there are no days and years.

Think how he must be wishing
that we could know today
how nothing but our sadness
can really pass away.

And think of him as living
in the hearts of those he touched
for nothing loved is ever lost
and he was loved so much.