Carol M Norrie's Obituary
Carol M. Norrie, 86, of Tampa, Florida, passed away peacefully on February 15, 2026, at the Dr. Jay Weil Center for Hospice Care in Port Richey, Florida.
Born on April 4, 1939, in Buffalo, New York, Carol was the daughter of Herman and Marguerite (“Peggy”) Hitzges. She graduated from Mount St. Mary Academy in Kenmore, New York, Class of 1957. Than on June 20, 1959, she married the love of her life, Byron James Norrie, with whom she shared 63 beautiful years of marriage.
Carol dedicated 32 years to the Florida Public School System, serving in both Dade and Hillsborough Counties. As a Food Service Manager for Hillsborough County Public Schools—Student Nutrition Services, she oversaw operations, trained staff, and ensured that every child received a delicious and nutritionally sound meal. Renowned as a hospitality expert within the school food service community, she delighted in preparing luncheons for administrators just as much as she cherished meeting the needs of each student. Her warmth, dedication, and ever-present smile made her a beloved figure among coworkers and children alike.
Her exceptional service earned her recognition as Paraprofessional School Support Personnel of the Year in both 1995 and 1996.
To her family, Carol was the ultimate “professional shopper,” always hunting for the best deals. To her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, she will forever be remembered as “Sneaker Grandma,” the one who ensured they always had the newest and coolest sneakers for birthdays and Christmas. Her greatest joys in life were her faith and the deep love she shared with her husband, Byron.
Among her proudest accomplishments were her three elaborate retirement celebrations and, above all, the family she cherished.
Carol is preceded in death by her beloved husband, Byron; her sister, Suzanne; and her brother, James. She is survived by her four children—Byron Jr., Susan, Laurie, and David; her brothers Richard, Robert, Peter, and Tim; ten grandchildren; and twelve great-grandchildren, all of whom will carry forward her legacy of love, strength, and generosity.
A Funeral Mass will be held at St. Timothy Catholic Church on February 24, 2026, at 11:00 a.m., with Rev. Connor Penn, Parochial Vicar, presiding. Burial will follow at Trinity Memorial Gardens, 12609 Memorial Drive, Trinity, FL 34655.
The family extends heartfelt gratitude to Gulfside Hospice for the loving care and support given to their beautiful mother.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Gulfside Hospice in Carol’s memory. https://www.gulfside.org/make-a-gift.html
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