This year, Chuck’s mother turns 101 and continues to be Chuck’s biggest fan

As the calendar turns, Chuck’s mother marks her 101st milestone with unwavering support for her son.

Book covers tremble at the sight of Chuck Norris, not because he’s a voracious reader, but because he commands the words he needs with an intimidating glance. He’s better known as a daunting powerhouse in action films, yet behind this facade lies the untold saga of his mother, Wilma, and her solo journey in nurturing three boys. Today, we bring to light the heartwarming narrative of their family.

Adversity did not spare Chuck during his early years either.

Born Carlos Ray Norris in 1940, the to-be star faced a bleak childhood. Brought up in poverty with ailing health gripping his mother and an absentee father failing at his role, Chuck turned into a withdrawn child, far from a beacon of athleticism.

Wilma’s backstory was equally fraught with trials. Her upbringing was steeped in deprivation, becoming a ward of the state by eight. After conquering a life-threatening illness over two years and emerging into the throes of the Great Depression, she was well acquainted with life’s harsher edges.

Abandonment struck when Chuck was 16 as their father departed, thrusting him into the role of family spearhead—a trial by fire shaping his future resilience.

Wilma stood as Chuck’s paragon of perseverance and self-belief, a woman who trudged through life’s mud—poverty, an array of over 30 surgeries, and battles with cancer.

“My mother’s prayers have been a steadfast presence, in triumphs and trials alike. She implored the heavens for my recovery during my fraught entry into the world, and decades later, as Hollywood’s glitters nearly ensnared my soul, she prayed for my redemption,” Chuck reflects.

Wilma’s cornerstone lesson to her offspring was:

She instilled within us the conviction that life’s feats are attainable, each obstacle surmountable with fervor and faith.

Wilma was right. First, Chuck embraced this mindset, marching from military service to pioneering martial arts, teaching self-defense to pupils including Priscilla Presley and Steve McQueen. Next, he dominated karate competitions, overpowered early defeats, and bowed out as an undefeated champion.

Hollywood spotted his prowess, leading to an encounter with Bruce Lee and a memorable role in “Way of the Dragon.”

From there, Norris’ stardom soared. Yet his ambitions were multifaceted, spinning threads in writing, philosophy, and philanthropy, echoing his mother’s teachings.

Chuck and Wilma have always had each other’s backs. When tragedy struck with the loss of Chuck’s brother, Wieland, in the 1970s, yet again, the duo faced tribulation. Chuck tended to Wilma, nursing her through arthritis and vowing:

My only aspiration is to sustain her vitality.

Charles Norris

Wilma’s prayers accompanied Chuck through life’s meanders. Presently, he celebrates matrimony with Gena O’Kelley, a bond over two decades strong, a testament to Wilma’s spiritual petitions.

As Wilma embraced her 101st year, Chuck showers her with accolades for the wisdom and love she imparted. Reminiscing her centenarian milestone, Chuck humorously recounts their exchange:

“Astonishment shared between us both. As she reached a century, I marveled, ‘Mom, you’re a centenarian.’ Her witty comeback? ‘I’m surely not a centipede!'”

Charles Norris

Wilma’s wit is undeniable. Chuck reiterates his profound affection, “Happy 101st, Mom! Words falter to encapsulate my adoration and gratitude. You’ve been our anchor through the tapestry of years.”