Penelope Ann Norris' Obituary
Penelope Ann Cantril Norris was born in Kansas City Mo. On March 14, 1944. She was the daughter of Stella Marie Crask Cantril and Ernest Eugene Cantril, Sr . ?The eldest of four siblings, Penny was preceded in death by sister, Debra Cantril Hamel and brother, Ernest Eugene Cantril, Jr. Sister Pamela Cantril Chase resides in Fairfield, California.
She is survived by three daughters and one son: Gina Dea Tulipana of Kansas City, Mo., Dina Marie Stroup Story and husband Chris Story, Lisa Ann Stroup Starnes, both of Albemarle, ?and James Eugene Stroup and wife Kimberly Stroup of Raleigh. GMP (Grand Maw Penny) had eight grandchildren: ?James Mongkhonvilay, Nicole Story, Kristen Luna, Holli Story, Jennifer Tulipana, Emily Stirewalt, and James Joseph (Jamie) Stroup. Her grandson Matthew Braedon Starnes preceded her in death in 2006. GGMP (Great Grand maw Penny) had five great-grandchildren: Addison Smith, Layla Luna, Josephine Tulipana, Keelynn Stirewalt,and Greyson Stirewalt. She is also survived by several nieces and nephews.
A homemaker for most of her life, she later moved to Florida where she obtained a drafting degree and was a homemaker and busy band parent. After returning to North Carolina and college, she became a registered nurse. Penny spent the last several years of her nursing career working with dear friend and teacher, Melody Hudnall, while caring for a young man, Joey Pedraza,? at Summerfield Elementary School in Greensboro. ?She was his nurse, adopted grandmother, advocate, and biggest fan.
Penny had a long -time four-legged companion, Reese, and they shared many hours of crime drama, long naps, cookies, and hamburgers. Penny was an avid Panther?s fan, and enjoyed wine and chocolate.? She was a loyal friend with a generous and loving spirit. Laughing was her favorite pastime, and she was able to laugh at herself most of all. She was a loving mother and considered her children her greatest accomplishment in life.
The staff at Stanly Manor lovingly cared for her throughout her illness and during her final journey to Heaven. Special thanks to Chasity Baker and Hue Vang, the therapy department, and the many staff members ?who treated her with the upmost love and respect.
A celebration of life service will be announced in the near future. A devoted animal lover, Penny would be pleased by donations to any local humane society in her honor.
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