Chuck Norris may be over 80, but he still recognizes and appreciates those who have sacrificed for him. During his mom’s 101st birthday, he honored her for being his number one supporter and leading a prayerful life despite being abandoned by their dad.
Chuck Norris, who became a household name in the 1970s, is a man with many hats, a martial art expert, a belt holder, and an accomplished actor, but the title that stands out is being a loving son and appreciative husband.
The movie legend is always quick to praise the woman who gave him life, Wilma Norris. He credits her as a stronghold in the family and for raising him with his two brothers as a single mom.
During 2021’s Mother’s Day celebration, the actor shared a heart-melting message honoring his mother. He added his wife, Gena, mentioning that both women have influenced his life tremendously. He wrote:
“I am overwhelmed with gratitude to God for these two incredible women’s influence in my life.”
Interestingly, the Mother’s Day wish was only the topping on the cake. Chuck’s honorary message was padded with affection and gratitude towards his mom, who turned 100 on the same day. He added, “I love you, Mom! Happy 100th birthday!”
In a previous interview, Chuck revealed that his mother has an active, prayerful life. Wilma did not limit her prayers to his career but extended them to his future as a family man. Chuck noted:
“She even prayed for me to find a woman to change my life, and it worked.”
Shockingly, Wilma never had it easy. She was born in abject poverty and raised three sons without a father; their dad abandoned them when they were little.
Yet, she ensured that her boys all turned out right. Apart from prayers, the mother-of-three taught them priceless values. While raising her sons, she made them believe that no obstacle is insurmountable.
Such beliefs impacted Chuck, and he displayed it in his career, becoming a highly successful martial artist and a force to reckon with in Hollywood.
The actor also paid attention to his family. Neither fame nor fortune made him stray. He married Gena in 1998, and they began a family in 2001.
Ten years later, she began showing symptoms of arthritis and was scheduled to get an MRI. Consequently, she reacted to the treatment and required 24-hour nursing care to become well.
Without hesitation, Chuck stepped in. “My whole life right now is about keeping her alive,” he confessed.