Sandra Lynn Norris

Sandra Lynn Norris, 77, of Deland, Florida, passed away peacefully on January 19, 2025, at Advent Hospice. Born August 5, 1947, at Ottumwa Hospital in Ottumwa, Iowa, Sandra was the darling 10th daughter of Joseph and Edith Pickens. Sandra had 11 brothers and sisters, countless nieces and nephews, and was deeply loved by her large, dynamic family. She was a proud 1965 graduate of Ottumwa High School and an active member of the First Nazarene Church on North Court Street. Her faith was the cornerstone of her life, guiding her actions and inspiring her commitment to serving others. Her steadfast belief in God provided her strength and comfort throughout her life.

 Sandra began her career at Collin’s Electrical in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, before pursuing higher education at Nazarene College in Oklahoma. It was during Labor Day weekend in 1973 that she met the love of her life, Cecil Norris. After a brief courtship, they married on January 19, 1974, and Sandra joined Cecil in England, where he was stationed as a U.S. Air Force Crash Rescue Firefighter at RAF Wethersfield. They had many adventures exploring, laughing, and creating cherished memories, building their home together and writing their love story that would carry on for 51 years of marriage and beyond.

 Sandra gave birth to her first child, Kevin, in February, 1975. In 1979, the couple relocated to Florida, where they welcomed the birth of their second child, Lisa, in 1986. Sandra worked for the Volusia County Election Department where she demonstrated commitment to her valuable work and formed lasting, meaningful friendships with coworkers. Her dedication and hard work were recognized until her retirement in 2008.

 Sandra had a deep love for animals, especially dogs and cats, and was rarely seen without one by her side. She was an active member of First Assembly Deland, and dedicated her time to the church’s Girls Ministry, earning Star Status as a leader, as well as assisting her husband in the Royal Rangers program.

 Sandra had an extraordinary ability to make everyone feel welcome and loved. Friends and family fondly recall her infectious smile that could light up any room. She was known for her quiet nature, yet enjoyed recounting amusing tales from her time overseas with Cecil, the events in her children’s lives, and especially her special moments with her grandchildren. Sandra loved game nights with her grandson and was never happier than when surrounded by family, cuddling her pets, or relaxing in solitude with a good book.

 Sandra is survived by her beloved husband, Cecil; her son, Kevin Norris; her daughter, Lisa Rickman, and son-in-law, Andrew; and her two treasured grandsons, Samuel and Theodore, who were the light of her life. 

 A memorial service to celebrate Sandra’s life will be held on January 29, 2025, at 11:30 a.m. at First Assembly Deland, located at 551 S Kepler Rd, Deland, Florida. A fellowship meal will follow the service.

 In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to First Assembly Deland, designated for the Girls Ministry, in Sandra’s honor.