Chuck Norris says that his mother has been an "example of perseverance and faith her whole life."

The Hollywood star made the comments in an article for WND on Monday, the day before his mother's 100th birthday. Wilma Norris Knight grew up in rural Oklahoma, the youngest of 11 children and faced many trials through life, Norris says. But through it all she clung to her faith.

"My mother has prayed for me all my life, through thick and thin," Norris says.

"When I was born, I almost died from complications. When nearly losing my soul to Hollywood a few decades ago, she was back home praying for my success and salvation. She even prayed for me to find a woman to change my life, and it worked. I equally celebrate my wife, Gena, during this Mother's Day week."

Norris goes on to give thanks to God for "these two incredible women's influence in my life. I wouldn't be the man I am without them."