By Sherrie Norris
Since losing their home, vehicle and personal possessions in an April 23 fire — and still in limbo as the recovery process continues — Denny and Charlotte Norris of Boone recently said they have been overwhelmed by the kindness of the High Country, in general. “We are humbled and extremely grateful by the response of our local community, our family, friends, churches and others who have offered to help us get back on our feet.”
A fundraising committee was recently established to assist the Norris couple with their ongoing needs and is hosting an event on Saturday, July 21, from 5- 8 p.m. Watauga High School will be the setting for an evening of live music, good food and fellowship as friends surround the Norris couple and their family in a show of support during this difficult time.
The event will feature live bluegrass, old-time and gospel music provided by Amantha Mill, The Norris Family, The Burnett Sisters and The Winger Family.
Food choices will include pork barbecue, fried chicken, or hot dogs and all the trimmings.
The Norris couple had spent the last 47 years of their lives together in their home before a vehicle fire quickly spread to the dwelling and caused total destruction; the exact cause of the fire has yet to be determined.
Unfortunately, very little, if anything was salvageable, except for the memories that they hold dear to their hearts, and the clothes they were wearing that day.
Over the years, Denny and Charlotte Norris have been active and served in local churches and numerous civic and community organizations, members of which have come together as the fundraising committee and include the following: Green Valley Community Park Board of Directors, South Fork Baptist Church, Tabernacle Baptist Church, Todd Community Preservation Organization Board of Directors, Todd Ruritan Club, Todd Volunteer Fire Department, Watauga County Parks and Recreation and Watauga County Soil and Water Conservation District.
Admission to the fundraising event is by donation. Those unable to attend, but would like to make a contribution may do so by sending checks payable to the Norris Family Benefit to committee treasurer Janice Carroll, 200 Dell Coffey Road, Boone NC 28607. Electronic contributions may be made at www.gofundme/denny-and-charlotte.