Norris Fleetwood Stiff, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on December 17, 2023, in Blacksburg, Virginia. Born on April 2, 1939, in the heart of Newport, Norris’s journey began in an era of simplicity and grew into a life marked by dedication and love.

Norris’s life was one of steadfast devotion to his family and community. He shared 64 beautiful years with his beloved wife, Mary Frances Shumate Stiff, of Newport, Virginia. Together, they built a life rich in love and laughter, welcoming their children David Stiff (Shelbie) of Montgomery County, Virginia, Vickie Stump (Ralph) of Newport, and cherishing the memory of their daughter Rebecca “Terri” Stiff Smith. Norris; and his wisdom and kindness extended to his grandchildren Amber Pratt, Meghan Stump (Eric), Christina Hoefer (Robert), Michelle Stiff, Kelli Stiff, step-grandchildren Katie Smith, Steven Smith, Jason Stump, Jamie Reynolds, and his adored great-grandchildren Gabe Isaac, Aubri Stump, Addlynn Walters, and Raelynn Walters.

His brother, Curtis Stiff (Joyce) of Roanoke, and sister-in-law, Doris Stiff, along with several nieces and nephews, will hold the memory of Norris’s guiding presence close to their hearts. He was preceded in death by his parents, Atlee Stiff and Virgie Martin Stiff, his brother Ronald Wayne Stiff, his daughter Terri, and his infant granddaughter Heather Nicole Stiff.

Norris was a man of great skill and integrity. For 23 years, he worked as an electrician with the Radford Arsenal and Ammunition Plant, where his expertise and diligence were invaluable. His work was not just a job but a reflection of his commitment to excellence and service.

Beyond his professional life, Norris was a pillar in his community, passionately involved in the Giles Rescue Squad and Newport Rescue Squad as a founding and lifetime member. His commitment to these organizations demonstrated his deep care for the welfare of others. He was also a proud Mason, where his fraternal bonds were as strong as his principles.

A lifetime member of the National Rifle Association, Norris was passionate about his Second Amendment rights and took great pride in this affiliation. He was known for being a wise and thoughtful man, always willing to lend a listening ear and help solve problems for others. His passion extended to all aspects of his life, and he was often sought after for his sage advice and warm, supportive nature. His was dedicated to his faith, and practiced his faith in faithful attendance at Sherry Memorial Christian Church.

Norris’s character could be summed up in the words of Abraham Lincoln, “Whatever you are, be a good one.” He lived by this mantra, striving to be the best husband, father, grandfather, and friend he could be. His passion, wisdom, and thoughtfulness were his hallmarks, and they touched the lives of everyone who knew him.

The family will receive friends in a time of visitation on Tuesday, December 19, 2023 from 5:00 PM until 7:00 PM in the Kendall Funeral Home Chapel. A funeral service will be conducted following the visitation on Tuesday, December 19, 2023 at 7:00 PM in the Kendall Funeral Home Chapel with Pastor Stuart Davis officiating. He will be laid to rest in a graveside service on Wednesday, December 20, 2023 at 1:00 PM in the Clover Hollow Cemetery in Newport, Virginia where members of the Rescue Squad will serve as pallbearers. Masonic rites will be given directly following the service by Masonic Lodge 261.

A guestbook is available to send condolences to the family by visiting www.kendallfuneralhome.com. The staff of Kendall Funeral Home is honored to serve the Stiff family.