Ronald Lee Norris "Cotton"

Ronnie "Cotton" Lee Norris, 69, of Rhoadesville, VA passed away on Friday, October 24, 2025, at the University of Virginia Medical Center in Charlottesville, VA. He was born on March 14, 1956, in Culpeper, VA, to the late George Fletcher Norris and Agnes Mae Payne Norris. He attended Culpeper County High School, where he balanced his education with full-time work and family responsibilities. At just sixteen, Ronnie worked full-time and helped his father deliver Washington Post newspapers. When his mother met with his guidance counselor, they arranged for him to take Government class while still managing his demanding schedule. Ronnie began his career at the A&P grocery store at the age of sixteen. Always quick with a joke, he once accepted a dare to paint the wheels of the bread truck while the parking lot was being striped, an act that led to him being reassigned from loading groceries into cars. But his determination and natural leadership soon moved him from cashier to management, a reflection of his strong work ethic and commitment. Outside of work, Ronnie was an expert at cleaning, collecting, and selling cast iron pans and would turn what others might overlook into something worth treasuring. A true dog lover, he enjoyed participating in dog trials and devoted countless hours to working with and caring for his beloved dogs. He also had a lifelong passion for restoring old cars and trucks to pristine condition. Mostly a Chevrolet man, but he still had a soft spot for his prized 1930 Ford Model A. Ronnie or "Cotton" as many called him, was known for his hard work, humor, and down-to-earth nature. He will be remembered for his laughter, his stories, and his knack for finding purpose and pride in every project he took on. He had a gift for turning hard work into joy, and ordinary days into lasting memories. He is survived by his loving wife, Julie Kerrigan Norris; his former wife and mother of his daughter, Connie; his daughter, Leanne Brooks (husband, Matthew); his grandson that he adored, Mason Ryan Brooks; his siblings, Tina Norris Jenkins (husband, Brad), and George Norris (wife, Cindy); and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, family and friends. A service to honor Ronnie's life will be held at a later date, with details to be shared once finalized. An online guestbook is available at www.compassionatecremationva.com www.compassionatecremationva.com/obituaries/ronald-norris-10/ Compassionate Cremation Services of Ruckersville, VA is handling the arrangements.

Ronald Lee Norris "Cotton"

March 14, 1956 - October 24, 2025