William C. "Bill" Norton III

The family of Bill Norton wants to express deep gratitude for all the love, prayers, positive energy, and support we have received over the course of his illness. Bill (68) passed away June 29, 2017 at home surrounded by love. Bill was born in Southport, NC to William C. Norton, Jr and Mary Florence Moore Norton. He was raised on a barrier island where he loved having the freedom to explore amidst the live oak trees. His family moved to Cleveland, TN when he was 12 years old where he developed, deep, long-lasting friendships. Bill was a handyman and could do anything he set his mind to. He logged his land with a mule; he and wife *judy sawmilled their logs (and others) into timbers. With the help and support of friends and family, Bill crafted a stone and timber-frame barn. He dismantled old buildings in exchange for the materials. He was a great proponent of salvaging materials before there was a market for them. With these he built out-buildings. He was generous with his time and talents. He helped others build their dreams, as well. When the Ocoee River returned to its streambed due to a damaged flume, Bill was one of the first to test its waters. He loved the river and treasured introducing others to it’s charms. He and other pioneering guides created the first Guide Manual to the Ocoee River. Bill canoed, guided rafts, managed Ocoee outposts, and was an entrepreneur with the Caney Creek Trading Company line of products. He was visionary. Recently, the commercial rafting Take-Out on the Ocoee River was named the Bill Norton Take-Out. One of Bill’s best qualities was he valued listening. Bill was a great mentor. He connected with others where they were. He encouraged others to be their ‘true selves’. Folks have paid tribute from numerous states and localities. A recurring theme is that individuals are better people because of the influence Bill Norton had in their lives. Bill felt like he had a “living wake”. As such, he requested that family hold private services. He was devoted to the four women in his life: his mother Mary “Flos” Norton, his wife *judy, his daughters Mary Norton Cole, and Jill Norton Woodruff. He will be deeply missed by family and friends. In lieu of flowers, Bill and family requested that donations be made to Hope Lodge of Nashville 2008 Charlotte Ave, Nashville, TN 37203, or WUTC radio station 423 425-4756. The Jim Rush Funeral and Cremation Services North Ocoee Chapel has charge of the arrangements. You may share your condolences and your memories with Bill's family at www.jimrushfuneralhomes.com.Read Obituary