Coach Gerald “Gerry” Norris Passed Away on 10/22/24

Gerald “Gerry” Norris passed away on October 22, 2024 at the age of 74 in Gainesville, FL. He passed in the company of his family after battling cancer for the past few months. He was born on February 16th, 1950 in White Plains NY, the son of Lt. Col. James F. Norris and Rita Fitzgerald Norris. Gerry leaves behind a legacy of dedication to his family and community.

Gerry became a central figure in Tallahassee beginning in 1968 when he joined the Florida State University varsity swim team. After four years at FSU, he worked for the Parks and Recreation Department, serving the city for over 30 years in various roles - Aquatics Director, District Commissioner of Florida Little Major League Baseball, and Athletic Superintendent. While juggling his day job and family, Gerry worked to be an integral part of creating what is now the Area Tallahassee Aquatics Club, truly laying the foundation for the swimming world of Tallahassee. Many young swimmers and athletes have had the opportunity to be coached and mentored by Gerry over the past 50 years. His love for the water was not just a part of his career, but also his passion as he kept swimming throughout his life.

He is lovingly remembered by his wife, Karen. He is survived by his sister Gail Maginnis (Norris) in Charleston SC, and his three children, Katherine Norris Roth (husband Jon), Karla Norris, and Christopher Norris (wife Arianna). He has five grandsons, Jonathon Roth Jr., Calvin Roth, Owen Roth, Miles Roth, and River Norris. His grandsons will cherish the memories of Christmas Eve story time and beach vacations spent at St. George Island.

A memorial service to honor Gerry's life and contributions will be held on Monday, October 28, 2024. It will be held at 4pm at the Bevis Funeral Home, located at 200 John Knox Road, Tallahassee FL 32303.

Dayne Parker of Bevis Funeral Home (850-385-2193 or www.bevisfh.com) is assisting the Norris family with their arrangements.