Judith A. "Judy" Norris

Judith A. "Judy" Norris, 86, of Topeka, passed away on Wednesday, July 8, 2026, while in the care of Homestead of Topeka and Ascend Hospice. She was born April 28, 1940, in Hutchinson, Kansas, the daughter of Ransom M. and Janice (Evans) Smith.

Judy graduated from Manhattan High School and earned a master’s degree in education from Kansas State University. She was employed as an Elementary School Teacher in Manhattan and Holton before moving to Topeka in 1998, where she was employed by the Sylvan Learning Center and Washburn University. She was a member of the Countryside United Methodist Church, the Pi Beta Phi Sorority, the KSU Alumni Association and the National Education Association.

Judy married Clarence W. "Clancy" Norris on April 9, 1961, in the Danforth Chapel on the Kansas State University Campus. He survives. Other survivors include children, Cindy L. Norris of Manhattan, and Mike A. Norris of Topeka.

Judy was a lifelong educator and was passionate about teaching young people whether in the classroom, or in helping to prepare the next generation teachers. After graduating from Kansas State University, she taught second grade at Woodrow Wilson elementary school in Manhattan, KS and at Colorado elementary school in Holton, KS. Following her time in the classroom she served on the Holton School Board for 12 years. As the President of the School Board, she was able to hand her son Mike his diploma at his high school graduation. After moving to Topeka in 1998 she helped the Sylvan Learning Center get started and her final working role was as the Supervisor for Student Teachers at Washburn University overseeing and supporting new teachers as they began their careers. She left an undeniable mark on the world of education.

Judy was an avid tennis player and enjoyed staying active. She could play a mean game of Gin Rummy. She and Clancy were music lovers and passed their love of music on to Cindy and Mike. Though neither Clancy nor Judy could really play an instrument, and neither sang that well, but boy could they dance. They loved to dance and watching the two of them on the dance floor together was timeless.

And we must mention her love of her sweet dogs. She and Clancy had an affinity for Scottish Terriers. It started with Wheels, and then Magic and then finally Pepper. They were constant companions, loyal and brought so much joy into their home.

Finally, there was her attire. She was classy. As some would say, she was always put together. She took great pride in her appearance, her hair, her nails and her wardrobe. People were known to comment that they’d never seen her in the same outfit twice, and that may be true, but that’s not what set her apart. What set her apart was her genuine love for people. She was approachable, relatable, an advocate and always cared for others. She was an avid volunteer and never shied away from leading any effort she deemed worthwhile. She led an amazing life. She was truly beautiful inside and out. She will be missed by many.

A Celebration of Judy's Life will be held at Countryside United Methodist Church on Thursday, July 23rd with visitation beginning at 10:00 a.m. and the ceremony to follow at 11:00 a.m. Private inurnment will take place in Mount Hope Cemetery following the service.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be given to Countryside United Methodist Church, 3221 SW Burlingame Rd., Topeka, Kansas 66611 and will help support the JUMP program (Justice and Unity Ministry Project).

Dove Southeast Chapel, 2843 SE Minnesota Ave. is assisting the family with service arrangements.

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