The Akins Funeral Home of Blue Ridge announces the death of Mr. Buddy Dale Norton, age 68, of Cleveland, TN who passed away Monday, April 14, 2008 in the Health Center at Standifer in Chattanooga, TN. Born in Fannin County, he was a son of the late Robert Elbert Norton and Hazel V. Burnette Norton. He was a service station attendant and mechanic in Blue Ridge for a number of years. He was of the Baptist faith. Mr. Norton was a car enthusiast, enjoyed racing, bowling, and was a good communicator with others. He is survived by daughters and sons-in-law, Ila Thomas and Carl Thomas of Lavonia, GA, and Julie Norton and Mickey Kimsey of Cleveland, TN; brothers and sisters-in-law, Bill and Dorothy Norton, Harrison and Bangle Norton, and Kenny and Sharon Norton, all of Blue Ridge; sisters and brothers-in-law, Bonita and Gary Mashburn of Ellijay, Wanda and Richard Maye of Lafayette, GA, Hazel and Jerry Martin of Blue Ridge, and Teresa Norton of Copperhill; three grandchildren, Melanie Sanders, D.J. Smith, and Chad Smith; and five great grandchildren, Caitlyn Sanders, Mason Sanders, Chase Sanders, Chloe Smith, and Aaron Smith; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins also survive. Funeral services will be conducted Wednesday, April 16, 2008 at 2:00 p.m. from the Akins of Blue Ridge Chapel with Rev. Glen Arnold officiating. Music will be provided by Melvin and Glenda Davis. Pallbearers will be D.J. Smith, Chad Smith, Adam Norton, Mitchell Martin, B.J. Norton, and William Lopez. Honorary pallbearer will be Kenny Norton. Interment will follow in Sugar Creek Cemetery. The family will receive friends at the funeral home from 5:00-9:00 p.m. Tuesday evening. Condolences may be sent to the family at www.akinsfuneralhome.com. Akins Funeral Home of Blue Ridge is in charge of arrangements.