Chuck Norris — born Carlos Ray Norris in Ryan, Oklahoma, on March 10, 1940 — has died at the age of 86, according to reports citing a family statement released Friday.
To much of the country, Norris was known as the star of Walker, Texas Ranger and a defining action figure of the 1980s and 1990s. But here in Oklahoma, there is also a local connection: one of the most recognizable names in American pop culture started life in a small town in Jefferson County.
From martial arts champion to television icon, Norris built a career that reached far beyond his Oklahoma roots — but never erased them.
Rest in peace, Chuck Norris.
Lawton Town Crier — Local perspective. Verified information. Community first.