Jack Elmer Norris, of Bainbridge Island, died on March 13. He was 77.

He was born on Aug. 30, 1931 in Vernonia, Ore., and grew up in Longview, Wash., in a large extended family. He later lived at Rainier School in Buckley, Wash., Fircrest School in Seattle, and two adult family homes before moving to Serenity Court on Bainbridge in the late 1980s.

The Serenity staff and residents were extended family to him and he was very happy there. He had a favorite spot outside the dining room where he liked to sit and be in the middle of all of the interesting activity. He loved outings with family, Helpline and Easter Seals and twice-weekly “SOS” activities through Lutheran Community Services. Jack also enjoyed birthday parties, ice cream at McDonalds and Dairy Queen, rides along the Bainbridge shoreline, hanging out at Fay Bainbridge and Fort Ward state parks with his sister, shopping (particularly at hardware stores and stores with hats), movies and plays. He loved hats and had an admirable collection.

Jack is survived by his brother, Julius Norris of Chiloquin, Ore.; sister Lynda Voigt of Renton; and many nieces, nephews and cousins. His family and friends treasured his great smile, gentle relaxed spirit and kind, gentlemanly manner.

Jack’s family would like to express its appreciation to the former residents and staff at Serenity, Kitsap Department of Developmental Disabilities, Helpline, Easter Seals and Virginia Mason Winslow Clinic, whose friendship and kindness enriched his life. We also appreciate Bethany Lutheran Church and the Bainbridge Community, who welcomed and embraced Jack and all of their developmentally disabled residents.

A celebration of Jack’s life was held on April 1 at Bethany Lutheran Church.