Franklin Lee Norris

Columbia, SC — Franklin Lee Norris, of Columbia, SC died Tuesday, December 2, 2014, at the age of 79. Born in McCall, SC on October 22, 1935, he was the son of the late Benjamin Franklin Norris and Anna Lee Yates-Norris.He attended High School in McColl, SC and later received a Bachelor of Science degree in Criminal Justice Administration from Park College.However he remained a lifelong Gamecock fan. Mr. Norris served his country with honor and distinction in the United States Army for nearly 41 years.He retired from the Army on October 31, 1995 as a Chief Warrant Officer (CW4).After his initial active duty service commitment he joined the Myrtle Beach Police Department where he served as a Police Officer for ten years.He later worked as a Special Agent with the Department of Defense DIS for three years.Realizing his home was in the Army, he returned to active duty service with both the South Carolina Army National Guard and later with the Army Reserves where he served in the Military Police Corps, Armor, and finally retiring as an Ordinance Warrant Officer with the 460th Chemical Brigade.During his military career he achieved the non-commissioned officer rank of First Sergeant prior to receiving his commission as a Warrant Officer.He also received several awards and commendations for his military service.After he retired, he substituted as a High School teacher in Hot Springs, AR and spent his spare time fishing with his Golden Retriever, Ginger, by his side. He was a lifetime member of the Seaside Masonic Lodge 419 and a Shriner for 47 years. He is survived by his son; Darren L. Norris (Tracey) and daughter; Beth N. Well (Brad); brother, Robert L. Norris; sister, Pat Gainey, his sister Marilyn Norris Smith who preceded him in death; Grandchildren, Nick Norris, Logan Norris, Alexa Well and Jordan Well; and nieces and nephews. A visitation will be held on Wednesday, Dec. 10, 2014 from 6-8 p.m. followed by services on Thursday, Dec. 11, 2014 at 11 a.m., at Temples-Halloran Funeral Home, 5400 Bush River Rd., Columbia, SC 29212.Burial will be held at a later date at Arlington National Cemetery in Washington, DC with full military honors. A special thank you to his caregiver Sara Gowan. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to Carolina C.O.P.S., 75 To Rest Street, Lyman, South Carolina 29365.