The Richmond News, June 26, 2026

Nancy Elizabeth Hamilton Norris, age 89, passed away Monday, June 8, 2026, at the Oak Crest Retirement Center in DeKalb, Ill. Nancy was preceded in death by her husband of more than 55 years, Dr. James D. Norris, former dean of liberal arts at Northern Illinois University (NIU); daughter, Elizabeth Ann Dailey; and parents, Dr. and Mrs. Buford B. Hamilton of Richmond.

She is survived by her son, James H. (Irene) Norris, and grandson, James (Abbey) Norris, and great-grandchildren, Duke and Decker; granddaughter, Shannon (Brogan) Mc-Williams, and great-grandchild, Brooks; and granddaughter, Jennifer Norris.

Nancy also is survived by her daughter, Katherine Norris, and grandchildren Tessa and Hunter Geer; and granddaughter, Taylor Hopper, and great-grandchildren, Mackayla and Zamora. She also is survived by her grandson, David (Sheena) Smith; and brother, Dr. Buford (Camille) Hamilton, both of Richmond, along with their spouses and children.

In 1979, Nancy moved to DeKalb, where Dr. Norris became dean at NIU.

Nancy was active in many community organizations, often serving in a leadership capacity, and supported many local causes. She was active in the League of Women Voters, NIU University Women, the Egyptian Theatre Restoration Committee, 100 Women Who Care and other groups.

She was especially proud of returning to college after raising her family, graduating in 1983, an event made more meaningful because her husband awarded her diploma.

After graduation, she worked at the NIU Center for Governmental Studies and served as assistant to the executive director of the Illinois City/County Management Association.

Nancy loved traveling, especially the year the family spent in Ghana, where her husband taught at the University of Ghana at Legon. She delighted in hosting gatherings at her home in DeKalb, ranging from card groups to annual wildlife dinners and Kentucky Derby parties. She also cherished time in Minnesota at the family cabin, relaxing and fishing for walleye.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to Heartland Hospice.

A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. July 16 at Westminster Presbyterian Church, 830 N. Annie Glidden Road, DeKalb.

For more information, call 815-756-1022 or visit the Anderson Funeral Home website, www.AndersonFuneralHomeLtd. com.