The motorsports and automotive world is mourning the loss of a true icon, Tommy Norris, who passed away on June 14, 2025, in South Carolina.
He was a longtime car owner for racing veteran Marty Ward and the beloved founder of Toyota of Easley.
Norris was a businessman, a mentor, a friend, and a pillar of his community.
From his deep roots in the South Carolina racing scene to his decades-long dominance in the auto sales industry, Tommy Norris’s passing has left a profound void in countless lives.
One longtime friend shared an emotional tribute:
“Sad day!!! Had to post a picture of our friend Tommy Norris who passed away yesterday in South Carolina!!! Hunting partners for 40 years. Owner of Toyota of Easley. Definitely one of a kind!!! Prayers for his family!!! Huge Clemson supporter!!! I had to wear that stupid hat because of a bet we made after an Ala vs Clemson game. RIP my friend! I’ll always cherish our memories—from London to Hawaii, Vegas to Washington. Love you brother. One day hopefully I’ll see you on the other side.”
Via Facebook
Another echoed the sentiment, writing:
“Just heard today that my good friend and owner of Toyota of Easley has passed away. RIP Tommy Norris—you will be missed.”
Via Facebook
A third added:
“It’s been a rough week in the racing community in Upstate SC. We learned that long time car owner of Marty Ward, Mr. Tommy Norris, has passed away. He was a good man and will truly be missed.”
Via Facebook
Tommy Norris’s Rise Of A Dealership Empire And Passion For Racing
After stints at Fairway Ford and Toyota of Greenville, Norris co-founded Toyota of Easley in 1979, where he would eventually become sole owner.
Under his leadership, the dealership became one of the most respected in the region, frequently ranked in the top 10 percent nationally for customer satisfaction.
Since 1990, the company has donated over $1 million to charities across South Carolina.
Each May, the dealership contributed $100 from every car sold to causes like Meals on Wheels, the YMCA, and domestic abuse support programs.
Beyond business, Norris had a deep love for racing.
He sponsored numerous local drivers and was a devoted supporter of late-model stock car racing.
His partnership with Marty Ward is legendary in the Upstate racing community, and his presence at tracks across the Southeast.
Even in his later years, Tommy remained active in the day-to-day operations of Toyota of Easley, often being the first to arrive at work and the last to leave.
Though his son Ryan had taken over much of the business, Tommy was still the heart and soul of the dealership.
Tommy is survived by his wife, Vickie; two children; six grandchildren; and many relatives.
Rest in peace, Tommy Norris!
In Case You Didn’t Know
- Born into humble beginnings on a small farm in the Pelham community, Tommy Norris knew hard work from an early age.
- At just nine years old, he began working in local shops, quickly realizing his gift for interacting with people.
- That early exposure to the public laid the foundation for a 47-year career in car sales that would eventually earn him the title of Time Magazine’s South Carolina Dealer of the Year.
