Warren W. Morris

Warren was born Aug. 31, 1923 to William Frank and Helen Mae (Wright) Morris at Big Lake, Mo. He attended the Bigelow School through the eighth grade and was graduated from Mound City High School in 1941.

Warren married the love of his life, Loretta Chamberlin, on March 25, 1951, in Brownville, Neb. They spent most of their married lives in the Mound City area, with the exception of 18 years in the Branson, Mo. area.

Warren was a farmer, carpenter, and real estate agent. He was active in the Lions Club in Mound City and Branson for over 50 years, and was a member of the Gideons.

He gave his life to Christ on New Year's Day, 1955, and was a faithful servant to his Lord his entire life, serving as deacon and elder for many years until his health began to fail. He helped to plant three churches – the New Testament Christian Church and Christian Fellowship Church in Mound City, and the Christian Church in Kimberling City, Mo. He was an avid letter writer and advocate for the rights of senior citizens.

Warren was preceded in death by his parents and his brother-in-law, Jim Neely.

He is survived by his wife, Loretta, of the home; their five children, Helen “Becky” (Stephen) Smith of Maryville, Mo., Frank Morris, Mound City, Bud Morris, Bigelow, John (Mary) Morris, Boswell, Ind., and Terry Morris, Independence, Mo.; his sister, Winnie Neely, of Craig, Mo.; four brothers-in-law and two sisters-in-law; and by 12 grandchildren and 21 great grandchildren.

One of his family's favorite memories of him are playing the banjo. As a young father he played for square dances throughout the county. It was a treat when he would get out his banjo at home to play and sing some of the old songs while his children and grandchildren gathered around. “Wreck on the Highway” and “Beautiful Brown Eyes” were two songs that were always included in these song sessions. He dedicated a special song, “Terry the Terrible Termite” for his youngest son, which was always requested whenever he would play.

Warren's favorite activities were hunting, trapping, and raising a large garden. He enjoyed being able to share the bounty with others, and he and his father always made sure there was a roast goose for holiday dinners.

Memorial services were held at 3:00 pm on Sunday, December 30, 2012 at the Christian Fellowship Church in Mound City.  Private family inurnment will be at Benton Cemetery. The family requests that in lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Shriners Hospitals for Children, or the Holt County Cancer Fund.