Robert Hill Norris, 76, of Johnson City, Tennessee, entered into the arms of God on Thursday, November 13, 2025. He was born on October 27, 1949 in Elizabethton, Tennessee, to the late Bert and Dixie Norris.
Growing up in the Valley Forge community, Robert's journey through life was marked by determination and service. As a teenager, he entered the appliance repair business alongside his uncles, demonstrating an early aptitude for working with his hands. Following his graduation from high school, Robert enlisted in the United States Air Force, where he served during the Vietnam war era. After receiving an honorable discharge from the Air Force, Robert graduated from Steed College with a business degree. After completing an apprenticeship at Eastman, he built a distinguished career as an electrician, working with numerous companies throughout his professional life.
Robert was proud to be commissioned into the Honorable Order of Kentucky Colonels in 2009, a recognition of his service and dedication to community. Robert was a member of Dashiell Masonic Lodge #238 where he had served as Master. Robert was very active in a number of Masonic bodies, including Jericho Shrine, where, as Commander under Potentate Richard Mitchell, he led the Jericho Legion of Honor to be Jericho unit of the year in 2008. Robert loved children and worked tirelessly to support Shriner's Hospital for Children.
An avid golfer, Robert found joy on the greens of the Pine Oaks Golf Course. He was known by many names to those who knew him: Big Bob, Grandadda, Burrhead, Dr. Bob— each reflecting a different facet of his warm, outgoing personality.
Never meeting a stranger, he was known by many, knew everyone, and loved fiercely. Robert is survived by his loving wife of 43 years, Katherine R. Norris. Also left to carry on his legacy are his pride and joy, his six children: Jennifer Carr (Steven), Gaylon Taylor II, Robert Norris (Lashae) , Natalie Jacoby (Nicholas), Katrina Graybeal (Stacy), Natasha Norton (Justin). Fourteen grandchildren: Emily Beck (Rick), Justin Carr (Rebecca), Jesse Carr (Alayna), Carson Taylor, Bailey Oakes, Madison Norris, Nicholas Jacoby IV, Dawson Jacoby, Kalyssa Jacoby, Kalib Graybeal, Khloe Graybeal, Austin Trivette, Lexi Trivette, Adelei Norton. Six great-grandchildren: Jasmine Carr, Skylar Beck, Arthur Beck, Peyton Carr, Paisley Carr, James Carr. Robert is also survived by three brothers and one sister: Larry Norris (Li Wen), James Norris (Glenda), Mike Norris (Laura), Joyce Brewer (Don). Several aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and cousins also survive.
There aren't enough kind words in the world to adequately honor the amazing man Robert was. His was a presence that will be missed all throughout the community. He was a man of great faith, honor, and integrity. His loved ones find solace in the knowledge that he is at peace in the presence of his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, and that one day, they will see him again.

Graveside Service will be conducted at 2 p.m. Friday, November 21, 2025 at Mountain Home National Cemetery. Active Pallbearers who are requested to assemble at the cemetery at 1:50 p.m. Friday will be: Bobby Norris, Nathan Taylor, Steven Carr, Justin Norton, Stacy Graybeal, Nick Jacoby III, James Norris and Michael Norris. Honorary Pallbearers will be his many many friends. Military Honors will be provided. The family will receive friends from 10 a.m. until 12 noon Friday at the funeral home. Family and friends will assemble at the cemetery at 1:50 p.m. Friday, in the historical section of the cemetery. Condolences may be sent to the family at our web-site www.memorialfcelizabethton.com.
Although we have unbearable grief, we know we will see him again. Until Then…in Big Bob's own words, "Everything'll be alright."

Memorial Funeral Chapel is serving the Norris family.