Edgar Leon Norris

Edgar Leon Norris, 94, of Williamsburg, passed away Saturday morning, March 26, 2022, at his home.

He was born Oct. 14, 1927, in rural Williamsburg, son of the late Ross E. “Joe” and Edna Grace (Cunningham) Norris. Leon was twice married, first to the late Mary Thelma Stevens and then on Dec. 5, 1987, he married Joyce M. Stehley.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Joyce of 34 years; three sons: Randall L. (Nancy) Norris of Altoona, Bradley J. Norris (Jerry Benito) and Todd S. (Corina) Norris both of Williamsburg; six step-children: Deborah Snyder, Patricia Dodson, Sharon Vaughn, Daniel Stehley, Karen Williams and Mark Stehley; 24 grandchildren; and 20 great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by a son, Bryan J. Norris; a step-son, William Stehley; two brothers: Darrell Norris and Robert Norris; and a sister, L. Joan Sherman.

Leon was a United States Navy veteran of WWII serving from March 1945 until August 1946, attaining the rank of Ship’s Cook Third Class.

He was employed for many years as a heavy equipment operator for the International Union of Operating Engineers. Leon also ran their family farm during those years and later in his life owned and operated E&J Logging service.

He was a longtime member of the Bonner-Sollenberger American Legion Post 456, Williamsburg. Leon loved racing and was one of the first competitors in the original NASCAR, known in those days as the Sportsman’s Series.

He also enjoyed farming, hunting and flying his own plane as a licensed private pilot.

A military honor service was held Wednesday, March 30, 2022, at Bolger Funeral Home Inc., Williamsburg (www.bolgerfuneralhome.com)

Memorial contributions in memory of Leon may be given to Blair County Conservation District.