Eugene E. Norris

Eugene E. Norris, age 92, of East Windsor, New Jersey, passed away peacefully on March 10, 2026, at Artis Senior Living at Princeton Junction. Born on July 14, 1933, in Manteca, California, Gene lived a life filled with adventure, creativity, and a deep love for his family.

Gene, a proud graduate of Hayward High School's Class of 1951, exemplified dedication and service as he joined the U.S. Marines during the Korean War, achieving the rank of Sergeant before returning home to embark on a remarkable career. His journey with IBM began in California and continued as he embraced the evolving world of information technology as a Systems Engineer, where he proved to be a good teacher and mentor to colleagues over his 35-year tenure. Gene was committed to lifelong learning and obtained numerous certifications, leaving a legacy of knowledge and expertise within the industry.

Gene was a multifaceted individual-a creator, designer, and technical genius-who found joy in working with his hands. He skillfully crafted furniture, brightened spaces with his artistic flair, and breathed life into metal sculptures. Perhaps most cherished were his legendary gardens, bursting with seasonal vegetables that reflected his nurturing nature. Gene was generally reserved and humble about his accomplishments, but loved to share the details of how things work and how to do it. He never wanted to enter senior art shows; he'd rather just create his art for his home and family. He loved Tex-Mex cuisine, western wear, and country music, as well as hosting countless backyard BBQs shared with family and friends. Traveling the world and exploring America's National Parks on horseback were integral to Gene's adventurous life. He and his beloved wife, Sydelle, shared nearly 50 years of marriage, creating a blended home filled with laughter and love. Together, they celebrated the joys of life with their children. He leaves behind a legacy of love, creativity, and a fierce spirit that will continue to inspire all who knew him. Gene's spirit will forever remain in the hearts of those who loved him, where his legacy of kindness, creativity, and adventurous spirit will live on.

Gene is predeceased by his parents, Oliver and Leone (Stoken) Norris, and his brother, Robert Norris. He will be deeply missed by his loving wife, Sydelle Norris, and his children and their spouses, Teri and Robert Rosenberg of Bradley Beach, NJ; Tim and Dee Norris of Langhorne, PA; Jack and Michelle Guida of West Chester, PA; and Lowell and Valerie Guida of Naples, FL. His legacy lives on through his six grandchildren, Melissa, Michael, Rachel, Kate, Renee, and Lexi, as well as his seven great-grandchildren, Juliana, Chase, Matthew, Jack, Luke, Corwin, and Ari.

In honor of his life, a Memorial Gathering will be held on April 2, 2026, from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at A.S. Cole Son & Co. Funeral Home, 22 North Main Street, Cranbury, NJ 08512, followed by a Celebration of Life Service beginning at 11:30 a.m., where family, friends, and loved ones will gather to commemorate Gene's remarkable life. The U.S. Marines will offer military honors at the conclusion, paying tribute to Gene's service to his country.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that contributions be made in Gene's memory to the Alzheimer's Association, Attention Donor Services by visiting ALZ.org or by calling 800-272-3900 x 2417 and referencing in memory of Eugene E Norris of East Windsor, NJ 08520.