Donald Otway Norris Sr.

Donald Otway Norris Sr., 95, of Peletier, North Carolina, passed away peacefully at his home on Wednesday, July 31, 2024.

Donald’s funeral service will be held at 2 p.m., Monday, August 5th at Peletier First Missionary Baptist Church, officiated by Pastor Michael Blevins. He will be laid to rest privately, with military honors, at the Norris Family Cemetery following the funeral. The family will receive friends in the Church Fellowship Hall following his interment. 

Donald was born on September 6, 1928, in Peletier, NC, to the late William and Katie Norris. His patriotism was seen throughout his faithful and honorable 27-year service in the United States Navy. With the rank of Master Chief Petty Officer, his bravery was displayed during World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War. Beyond his military career, Donald found fulfillment as an Aircraft Electrician in Civil Service until his well-deserved retirement. 

Donald’s commitment and love for the Lord was seen throughout his life. He faithfully attended his home church, Peletier First Missionary Baptist Church, where he served as Church Clerk since 1973. 

Donald cherished time spent with his family, creating treasured memories during their travels. From RV adventures to Disney World to annual trips to Washington DC for family reunions on Memorial Day Weekends, each moment was cherished. A standout journey was their cross-country drive to California in 1971.

In his free time, Donald was an avid golfer enjoying the challenge of the game and the peacefulness of the green. He loved to work the land and took pride in growing what he deemed as the finest watermelons east of the Mississippi. He was content to spend countless hours on his John Deer Tractor riding and tending to his tasks.

Always intrigued by history, Donald published the book “Abraham Enloe of Western North Carolina: The Natural Father of Abraham Lincoln” in 2008. Using the science of genetics as well as historical data, he presented strong evidence supporting the theory that Abraham Enloe, not Thomas Lincoln, was the biological father of Abraham Lincoln. Tracing the footsteps of Abraham Enloe from cradle to grave, Donald examined Enloe's youth, his time spent in North Carolina and affair with Nancy Hanks (the mother of Abe Lincoln), and the relationship he had with the young boy who would become one of our nation's most influential leaders.

Those remaining to cherish his memory are his daughter, Linda Norris Riggs and husband Gerald “Terry” of Peletier; son, James Edward Norris of Harpers Ferry, VA; 8 grandchildren; and 5 great-grandchildren.

In addition to his parents, Donald was preceded in death by his beloved wife Rose Mary Cooper Norris in 2012; his son, Donald Otway Norris Jr. in 2008; and brothers, William Durant Norris Jr. and Gene Corbett Norris.

As an expression of sympathy, flowers are welcome or memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, 225 N. Michigan Ave., Fl. 17, Chicago, IL 60601.

Family and friends are welcome to submit online condolences.

Arrangements by Munden Funeral Home & Crematory in Morehead City, NC.