Helen Lyons Norris

Helen Elizabeth Lyons Norris, 93, of Granite Falls, NC, formerly of Boone, passed from this life on April 15, 2022. Helen was born on March 17, 1929 in Durham, NC to beloved parents, the late Clarence M. and Lela Moretz Lyons. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her first born son, Norman Norris, granddaughter, Melissa Norris, brothers Charles Lyons, Donald Lyons and Eugene Lyons. Helen is survived by sons Clay (Deborah) Norris, Jerry Norris of Hudson, Jody (Gail) Norris of Lenoir, brothers, James (Red) (Peggy) Lyons of Boone, Earnest Lyons of Lenoir, Doyle (Brenda) Lyons of Christiansburg, Va., sisters-in-law Lucienne (Lou) Lyons of Lenoir and Rachel Lyons of Mooresville. Grandchildren Lori Jinkerson of Hudson, Christopher Norris of Norfolk, Va., Tyler Auton of Marion and Melissa (Chris) Spears of Lenoir, NC. Great grandchildren Mason Webb, Emily Jinkerson, Tyler and Trenton Auler, Jody and Kara Spears and one great grandson, Kannon Spears also survive in addition to numerous nieces, nephews and special, caring friends. Helen was a faithful member of Friendship Methodist Church in Boone until moving to Granite Falls in 2007, where she was welcomed into her new church home and became an active member of Grace Chapel United Methodist Church. Always anxious to step up and lend a helping hand, the Back Pack program for area children in need was a favored, church supported project that Helen eagerly devoted time, energy and resources to. She spoke many times of the humbling and heart wrenching moments at seeing the smiles and receiving a hug and sincere “thank you” from a child so grateful to have food to take home for the weekend. Helen retired from TRW and in earlier years was employed as the store manager of Mix Mates clothing in Boone. A phenomenal cook, family and friends always knew to expect deliciousness in plenty when invited to share a meal at Helen’s table. With baking skills that were well known, Helen received hundreds of requests for her perfectly decorated, special occasion cakes. The gardening that she so enjoyed meant hard work that was also a labor of love as she was always eager to share the bounty of her harvest. A result of diligent, loving care, spring and summer would always bring with it the display of a stunning array of colorful flowers and plants around her home where even with plenty of help from family and good neighbors, she remained determined, well into her 90’s, to do all she could for herself. Family and friends will mourn the loss of Helen’s presence here but take great comfort in the knowledge that through her faith and trust in Jesus Christ, her destiny of eternal life with our Lord and Savior has been secured. A memorial service will be held on Tuesday afternoon, April 19, 2022 at 2:00 in Hampton Funeral Home Chapel with Pastor David Nolan officiating. The family will receive friends from 1:00 to 2:00 prior to the service. Burial will follow at Mount Lawn Memorial Park and Gardens. Serving as pallbearers will be Craig, Scott and Mike Lyons, Mason Webb, Jody and Chris Spears. At Helen’s directive, flowers are appreciated or, in lieu of flowers, those who wish may make contributions to Grace Chapel United Methodist Church. Online Condolences may be sent to the Norris family at www.hamptonfuneralnc.com Hampton Funeral and Cremation Service is in charge of the arrangements.