Mary Lou Cooper Norris was born in Merryville and died Wednesday, Dec. 16, 2020.
She grew up in Merryville, attended Merryville High School graduating in 1955. She attended the University of Houston earning a Bachelor of Science degree in elementary education, subsequently earned a master’s degree in education from McNeese State University and did post graduate work in curriculum and instruction. She was a teacher in the Goose Creek Schools of Baytown, Texas and returned to her alma mater to teach for another three decades. She served as the first president of the Beauregard Federation of Teachers. She was a member of First United Methodist Church of Merryville. For nearly 60 years she was a member of the Masonic Order of Eastern Star serving in many leadership capacities and earning the rank of Worthy Matron.
She is survived by her children, Dr. Norman Dale Norris of New Orleans, and Brenda Gail Norris of Boles, Ark; and two granddaughters.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Arnold (A.C.) Norris, her parents, Newton Monroe Cooper and Mittie Azile Perry Cooper; and one sister.
A memorial service followed by interment will be private.
