Hiram Leaston "Buddy" Norris died at Halifax Hospice Edgewater early Thursday morning after a long battle with cancer. Born at Halifax Hospital on February 3, 1948, Buddy was a lifetime resident of southeast Volusia County. He graduated from New Smyrna Beach High School in 1967 and served in the U. S. Army Band, but his true profession was as an artist. Buddy was an award winning artist who shared his faith-inspired pen and ink drawings with those that crossed his path, whether they were a medical professional caring for him or a casual stranger. Buddy was a member of Bella Vista Baptist Church, where he served as Men's Ministry Director. He loved exhibiting in local art shows, spending time with his grandchildren, and watching cowboy movies.

He will be dearly missed by his wife, Laurie Struble Norris, his daughters Ann Russo and Lea Bartos, grand children Andrew and Savannah Weaver, Brendan Russo, Sara, Kraig and Gage Bartos, his father Nudge Norris, his sister Shirley Norris Bennett, and many nieces and nephews. He is preceded by his mother, Willine Pellicer Norris, brothers Perry and David Norris, and son Bret Norris.

A celebration of Buddy's life is planned for Saturday, March 12, 1:00 p.m. at Bella Vista Baptist Church, Edgewater.