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City honors Norris on 100th birthday

Leila Norris now has something in common with Alabama governor Robert Bentley. And it has nothing to do with politics.

When Russellville mayor David Grissom presented Norris with a key to the city Monday morning, she became only the second person to receive the honor under Grissom's tenure. 

Grissom declared February 8, 2016 as “Leila Norris Day” in the City of Russellville, in honor of her 100th birthday. Family and friends joined Grissom for a special ceremony Monday at Russellville City Hall.

“Gov. Bentley has the only other one of these I've presented,” Grissom said to Norris about the key. “This is for your contributions to your city, your family, your friends, the Lord, your church and worldwide.

“Every once in a while I get to do something special as mayor, and today is one of those days."

The former Leila Timmerman was born February 8, 1916 in Prattville. Her family moved to Port Arthur, Texas, when she was nine. It was during her days as a student at Harding College where she met Billy Norris. After graduation, the two married on October 8, 1936 in Port Arthur.

Billy and Leila had four children, Bunny Richardson (Jackie), Benjimen Norris, Tim Norris (Beverly) and Lanny Norris (Donna). Norris lives with her daughter Bunny and Jackie on the lake near Belgreen. At 100 years of age, she still maintains her independence as she resides in an apartment connected to the Richardsons' home.

Leila and Billy moved back to Russellville in 1955, where they owned and ran The King Frosty, the first soft-serve ice cream business in north Alabama. The couple later opened Norris Printing Company and operated their businesses for 37 years.

“The first Bible my parents ever gave me came engraved from Norris Bookstore,” Russellville city councilman Jamie Harris told Norris Monday. “I still have it today. You have touched a lot of lives you never even knew about."

Norris assisted in publishing the Gospel Guide, an international Bible-based publication, for more than 40 years. Norris has seen her family grow, through several new generations, to more than 40 members.

“I'd like to say I'm overwhelmed today,” Norris said Monday. “I never expected anything like this. I'm so thankful for and proud of my family. You all are so kind and I appreciate you very much."

Jackie Richardson shared an emotional message with his mother-in-law on her special day.

“I know what some people think about their mother-in-laws and the jokes you hear, but I've told you often you're the sweetest person I've ever known. There are no mother-in-law jokes that apply here,” Richardson said.

Norris' special day began with family photos in front of the Roxy Theater marquee, which offered a congratulatory “Happy Birthday” message celebrating her 100 years of life. The ceremony and presentation of the key to the city came next, followed by refreshments at City Hall, all making for a busy morning for the honoree.

“I've been very blessed," Norris said. "I never dreamed I'd get a key to the city. It's been a special day, but I'm a little tired."

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