During the Life and Legacy of Norris Benjamin Sr.

Norris was born August 9, 1945 to the parents of Norris Thomas and Minnie Norton in Dallas, Texas. Norris and his mother relocated to Beaumont, Texas where she married Tom Benjamin. Norris was both raised and received his education in Beaumont and graduated from Herbert High School in 1964. While at Herbert High School, Norris won 4th place in the Texas State Finals One-Mile Run during his time on the track and field team.

Norris joined the U.S. Army in 1968 and was ranked as an E4. During his time in the military, he had the honor and privilege of participating in the 21-gun salute as well as being an extra actor in the Tony Curtis movie, "Suppose They Gave a War and Nobody Came." These were some of the most memorable highlights of his time in the Army before being honorably discharged in 1970. In January of 1978, Norris started a new journey in Colorado where he began his 29-year career at Coors Brewery Co., retiring in 2008. During his time at Coors, he earned the "Employee Involvement Management Presentation" Certificate of Recognition.

Norris met Elma at her workplace after inquiring about her to a fellow employee, who was her nephew, Dior. He wanted to know more about her and she responded, "If you're single, call me." His determination was ignited and that's where the spark started between Norris and Elma. On August 29, 1987, the two were married and began a family with his son Michael and their dog Bruno. In their beautiful union, three children were born, DeLisa, Norris Jr., and Marquis. Norris enjoyed retirement and spent most of his time reading, traveling, gardening, and talking with friends and family. His favorite hobby was cooking all kinds of soul food and gumbo.

On October 28, 2023, Norris was called home to be with the Lord. He joins in eternity his parents, Tom Benjamin and Minnie Ola Norton, Norris Thomas, and friends, Lionel Coleman and John Harris.

Leaving to cherish his legacy is his loving wife, Elma Benjamin; children Michael Benjamin of Arizona, DeLisa Benjamin, Norris Benjamin Jr., and Marquis Benjamin, grandchildren Armani, Josiah, Zhane, NaSeem, Leilani, Kailyn, Cameron, and Leon; siblings Betty Jean Patterson, Robert Earl Benjamin, and Susan Benjamin, all of Denver.

Closest to Norris' Heart

Patricia Wafford, Aunt Geneva Vinson, Great niece Danielle Thomas

Special friends and Family

Homer James, Napoleon Henry, Ronald Smith, Bruce Griffin, Henry Brown & Family, The King family, The Matthews family, John Decluette (J.D.)

A host of nieces, nephews, cousins, additional family, and co-workers from Coors.