Obituary – James Lee “Jimmy” Norris
Monday, June 8, 2026
James Lee “Jimmy” Norris, age 67, of Shelbyville, Tennessee, passed away peacefully on Sunday, June 7, 2026, following a courageous battle with cancer.
Born on June 6, 1959, in Morehead, Kentucky, Jimmy was the son of the late Everette Norris and Ethel Ritchie Norris. He was also preceded in death by two brothers, Marion Norris and Sammy Ray Norris, and four sisters, Sharon Barricks, Vickie Lynn Kincaid, Judy Ann Creech, and Betty Jo Miller.
Jimmy leaves behind a loving family who will forever cherish his memory, including his sons, James Wayne (Ginny) Norris of Morehead and Robert “Samuel” Norris of Shelbyville, Tennessee; his daughter, Christy (Jeff) Adams of Morehead; eight grandchildren, Brian Adams, Leeann Furnish, Christa Spillman, Brentnee Adams, Christopher Norris, Natalie Jessee, Bryson Jessee, and Haelynn Norris; numerous great-grandchildren.
Other survivors include two brothers, Jerry Norris of Inez, Kentucky, and Danny Norris of Shelbyville, Tennessee; one sister, Bessie Pelkey of Augusta, Georgia; Samuel’s mother, Angela Schweppe of Shelbyville, Tennessee; and many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.
"Jimmy was a legendary horseman whose name became a symbol of excellence in the Tennessee Walking Horse industry." A respected trainer, teacher, rider, and mentor, he devoted his life to the horses he loved and the people he inspired. His remarkable career was highlighted by an astounding 56 World Championships and 49 Reserve World Championships at the Tennessee Walking Horse Celebration. His knowledge, dedication, and tireless work ethic earned him the admiration and friendship of countless individuals throughout the horse community.
Beyond the show ring, Jimmy enjoyed fishing, sharing stories, joking with friends, and giving others “a hard time” with his quick wit and playful spirit. He found comfort in simple pleasures—a hot cup of coffee, a Marlboro Red cigarette, and time spent with family and friends. His larger-than-life personality, infectious humor, and generous heart made a lasting impression on everyone who knew him.
Jimmy’s legacy extends far beyond trophies and championships. It lives on in the horses he trained, the people he mentored, and the family he loved so deeply. He will be greatly missed and fondly remembered by all whose lives he touched. Though his earthly journey has ended, Jimmy’s spirit will continue to ride on in the memories, stories, and countless lives he influenced along the way. May he rest in peace.
Funeral services will be conducted at 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, June 14, 2026, at Northcutt & Son Home for Funerals Memorial Chapel with Pastor Jeff Fannin officiating. Burial will follow in Wyatt Cemetery on Rock Fork Road in Morehead.
Pallbearers will be Joe Leon, Benny Burton, Zach Clark, Jody Brannon, Christopher Norris, and Donnie Oppenheimer.
Visitation will be held from 12:00 noon until 2:00 p.m. Sunday, June 14, 2026, at Northcutt & Son Home for Funerals, 400 Fraley Drive, Morehead, KY 40351.
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