George F. Norris

George F. Norris passed away on March 9, 2026, at Latrobe Hospital, surrounded by his loving family. Born on March 28, 1942, at the former Ligonier Hospital, he was the son of George and Eleanor (Barron) Norris. A lifelong resident of the Ligonier Valley, George graduated from Ligonier Valley High School in 1960, where he received the Outstanding Senior Athlete Award. He went on to earn a bachelor’s degree in social studies from Indiana University of Pennsylvania and a master’s equivalency from Penn State University.

George dedicated 36 years to the Ligonier Valley School District as a social studies teacher, instructing students in world cultures, economics, and world history. He was also a passionate coach, guiding teams in football, basketball, wrestling, girls softball, and Little League baseball. His coaching career included memorable seasons with the 1970s football program under Coach Jerry Blank, followed by his return in the 1980s as an assistant to Head Coach J.D. Jones. Those teams captured Mountain Conference Championships in 1984 and 1985 and enjoyed a remarkable 24-game unbeaten streak. In wrestling, he served as an assistant to Alan Ludwig during a period of great success that produced multiple state place winners and Ligonier’s only state champion, John Chendy.

In his personal life, George found joy in playing sports, listening to music, and spending time with friends. His greatest delight was his grandchildren, whom he loved taking fishing, watching in their sports, and supporting in all their accomplishments. Above all, he treasured the lasting relationships he built with his students, athletes, and colleagues throughout his career.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother Thomas Norris, and brothers-in-law Robert King and Jack King. George is survived by his wife of 59 years, June Norris; his children, Dr. George (Rebecca) Norris of Chantilly, Virginia, and Amy (Robert) Stoner of Ligonier; his grandchildren, Trey (Emma) Stoner, Tyler Stoner and Maya Best, Keara Norris and Joseph Mathews, Braden Norris, and Carter Norris; and his brother-in-law, Richard King.