April 3, 2025
Coryell Health recently celebrated the remarkable career of Dr. Stephen Norris at a special retirement reception, honoring his 45 years of dedicated service to the community. Employees, colleagues, and community members gathered to express their gratitude and wish him well. Dr. Norris has been a pillar of the medical community and a dedicated volunteer. Since being recruited to Gatesville in 1980, Dr. Norris has been a dedicated leader in healthcare, making countless contributions to the health and well-being of his patients.
“Dr. Norris has been an invaluable part of Coryell Health, not only as a physician but as a mentor, leader, and friend,” said Coryell Health CEO David Byrom. “His unwavering dedication to patient care and community health has left a lasting impact, and we are deeply grateful for his years of service. He will be greatly missed, but his legacy will continue to inspire us all.”
As Dr. Norris embarks on his well-earned retirement, Coryell Health extends its heartfelt thanks and best wishes for the next chapter of his journey.
About Dr. Stephen Norris
Dr. Stephen Norris was raised in Comanche, Texas, and graduated from Comanche High School in 1967. He earned his undergraduate degree magna cum laude from Baylor University in 1971 before attending the University of Texas Southwestern Medical School in Dallas. Following medical school, he completed a five-year general surgery residency, preparing him for a career in small-town medicine.
For the past 40 years, Dr. Norris and his family have called Gatesville home. He was the town’s only general surgeon until 2016, when Dr. John Bawduniak joined the team. Beyond his medical contributions, Dr. Norris dedicated himself to community service, serving on the GISD school board for 33 years and remaining active in the First Baptist Church.
Dr. Norris has also participated in four medical mission trips—one to Ghana, West Africa, and three to Honduras—further demonstrating his commitment to healthcare and service.
A member of several esteemed professional organizations, Dr. Norris holds certifications from the American Board of Surgeons and is affiliated with the American Medical Association, Texas Medical Association, Society of Baylor Surgeons, Texas Surgical Society, and the American College of Surgeons.
In his free time, Dr. Norris enjoys teaching Sunday School, cycling, singing in a gospel quartet, raising tropical fish and various birds, and flying kites whenever he has the chance. While his primary specialty was general surgery, he also lent his expertise to the Coryell Health Advanced Wound Center, where he cared for patients with hard-to-heal wounds.
Dr. Norris’s dedication, compassion, and expertise have left a lasting impact on the Gatesville community, and his presence will be greatly missed.