Inita Gail Norris Hennessee, 77, of Drexel, went home to be with the Lord on Saturday, September 5, 2026, following a period of declining health.

Born February 26, 1949, she was the daughter of the late Henry and Merrel Norris of Valdese. Inita was a member of First Baptist Church in Valdese.

She worked in data processing at Valdese Manufacturing and as a teacher assistant at Chesterfield Elementary School. Inita was also a lifetime member of the Morganton Moose Lodge. She loved her family dearly and took great pleasure in spoiling them. Inita loved the beach, Nascar, and watching the Hallmark Channel on TV.

In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her son, Jeffery Shuffler, great-granddaughter, Adaleigh Sharar and great-great grandson, River Abee.

She is survived by her husband Bob Hennessee; son, Michael Hennessee; daughter, Tammy Pearson; and siblings, Judy Jones and Karen Norris. Also surviving are her grandchildren, Kellie Abee, Megan Sharar and husband Stephan; great-grandchildren, Carrie Woodard, Alexis Woodard, Makayla Abee, Jeffery Ryffel, Lilianna Sharar, and Everleigh Sharar; and great great granddaughter, Athena Woodard.

A celebration of life will be held on Wednesday, September 9, 2026 at 1:00 PM at Fam Church in Morganton, with Pastor John White officiating. Inurnment will follow at Burke Memorial Park.

The family will receive friends on Wednesday prior to the service from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM.

Memorials can be made to Amorem of Valdese at www.amoremsupport.org or to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital at 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.

Heritage Funeral Service and Crematory in Valdese is assisting the family.