Patsy M Norvell

Patsy “Pat” Jacquelyn Norvell, cherished mother and grandmother, passed away peacefully on January 2, 2024. Born in Dallas on December 17, 1930, to Euell Gilbert Moseley and Oleta Lucille Wilson, Pat’s life was one of passion, creativity, and dedication to her family and community.

Pat graduated from Highland Park High School in 1948 and pursued her love for music at Southern Methodist University, where she majored in Voice Performance and Music Education. September 1, 1950, she married the love of her life, Ernest Woodrow “Woody” Norvell, embarking on a journey filled with love, music, and adventure. After graduating in December of 1950 they began a family and a lifetime of esteemed involvement in the community around them.

A talented musician, Pat often sang with Woody’s band and was later a constant presence in her church choir at Walnut Hill UMC. Prior to that, Pat was a founding member of Lover's Lane Methodist Church and was recognized as their longest surviving founder. Her artistic talents were vast, with a particular gift for pottery, winning a blue ribbon for a submission to the Texas State Fair competition. In addition, she taught pottery at Dallas’ Brookhaven Junior College. She worked on specially commissioned pieces for Japanese flower arranging, called Ikebana, that were sent overseas to Japan and all over the world. Pat's horticultural skills were renowned, especially in breeding irises, earning her friendship and respect within the Iris Society of Dallas and beyond. She was known to have hundreds of varieties labeled and growing in her back yard. Pat dedicated many years to volunteering at the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden, where she was honored with a lifetime service award. Pat and Woody also enjoyed traveling overseas and around the US with their RV club. She loved the Balloon Festival in Albuquerque and boasted having been to all but one state in the US. Her home was always a place of warmth, laughter, and culinary delight, reflecting her love for hosting and cooking.

Pat especially loved her four boys, and felt doubly blessed when they gave her daughters-in-law and grandchildren. She counted it a privilege to care for and spend time with both grandchildren and great-grandchildren, whether it brought teaching opportunities, reading time or childlike chaos.

Pat was predeceased by her parents, Euell and Oleta Moseley; parents in-law, Ernest J. Norvell and Mary E. Norvell; daughter-in-law, Sandra Norvell; and her beloved husband, Ernest W. Norvell. She leaves behind a legacy of love and inspiration through her sons, Kenneth W. Norvell; Stephen G. Norvell; David M. Norvell and wife Adrienne; and Gregory A. Norvell and wife Nancy. Her spirit lives on in her grandchildren, Kimberly, Kiley, Michael (Maria), Stephen (Jennifer), Amanda, Emily, Benjamin, Kyle (Jessica), and Kristina (Talon); and her great-grandchildren, Mila, Wyatt, Vivian, Luke, Micah, and Naomi.

Pat's life was a testament to her love for her family, her artistic passion, and her unwavering faith. She was a beacon of joy, creativity, and strength, deeply cherished by all who knew her. A celebration of her life will be held on March 8 at Walnut Hill Methodist Church at 11 am, followed by a lunch reception, and the burial service at 3:15 pm. at Dallas-Fort Worth National Cemetery.

Pat's memory will be treasured by her family, friends, and all who were touched by her vibrant spirit and generous heart. Her legacy of love, artistry, and community service will continue to inspire future generations.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to your favorite charity in memory of Pat's remarkable life and contributions.