Shirley Wellborn Norris

Shirley Wellborn Norris, 80, Topeka died January 9, 2007 at her home. Shirley was born October 16, 1926 in Emporia, Kansas to Rankin and Marjorie Buffon Wellborn. Shirley graduated from Lyndon High School. She attended Kansas University where she was a leader in many organizations, including President of Mortar Board, and first President of the Associated Women Students. After twenty-five years of Honor Men, the highest recognition at the University of Kansas, Shirley was chosen as the first Honor Woman. After marrying V.L. Norris (Moe) in 1948, Shirley moved to Topeka where her first job after graduating from KU was at Community Nursery School. Shirley's career was always focused on making the world a safe place for children to live and thrive. She continued to receive recognition both nationally and locally for her tireless advocacy for children. She was a pioneer in the Women's movement, and was always championing equal rights for all people. Shirley was active in Grantville United Methodist Church and touched the lives of many through family, work, and community. She is survived by husband Moe; children: Josie, Michael and his wife Jane, and Kaye; grandchildren: Chris, David, Diana, Steven, Melinda, and Isaac; sisters: Lois and husband Bob Dillon, and Jo Shellhaas; nieces and nephews, Steve and wife Susie, Mark & wife Sue, and Julie of the Dillon family; Greg and wife LeAnn, and Scott of the Shellhaas family; great nieces and nephews: Rachel, Julian, George, Nora, Paul, Greg, Jack, Joseph and Anthony of the Dillon family; Jordan, Parker, and Gates of the Shellhaas family.
Memorial services will be held at Penwell-Gabel Midtown Chapel, 10th and Lane, at 3:00 pm, on January 15, 2007. The family will greet guests for the half hour preceding the service. In lieu of flowers, please make memorial contributions to Topeka Day Center, Post Office Box 4928, Topeka, KS 66604.