Gary Lee Morris

GARY LEE MORRIS, age 70, of Maplesville, Alabama, passed away on April 4, 2026, at his residence. He was born in Chilton County on October 15, 1955, the son of the late George “Hoot” Morris and the late Minnie Lee Burnett Morris.

Gary was a former ink technician with Gulf States Paper Company, where he worked faithfully for a number of years. More importantly, he was a man whose life was firmly rooted in his faith in his Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ. His love for the Lord was evident in both word and deed, as he shared the message of the Gospel with all who would listen.

Affectionately known as “Big Gary,” he was a man who used his God-given talents to minister to others. He had a deep love for gospel music and was a gifted songwriter, penning several songs that reflected his faith and personal walk with the Lord. Gary found great joy traveling to churches, revivals, and gatherings throughout Chilton County and central Alabama, “picking and grinning,” as he liked to say. Whether standing before a congregation or gathered among friends, he never missed an opportunity to testify of God’s goodness. His music was more than a pastime—it was a ministry, and through it he encouraged hearts, lifted spirits, and pointed others to Christ. It was a rare sight to see him without a guitar in his hand and a song in his heart.

Before his health declined, Gary also treasured time spent with his grandchildren, often scrapping and selling metal alongside them. In those moments, he not only shared laughter but also instilled in them the value of hard work and the importance of earning an honest living.

He is survived by his daughter, Tonya Gwen Morris of Maplesville; his son, Jeremy Joel Morris of Maplesville; five grandchildren; ten great-grandchildren; his brother, William Michael Morris of Jemison; and a host of other relatives and many dear friends.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Kathy June Morris.

A memorial service will be held on Thursday, April 9, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. from the Chapel of Ellison Memorial Funeral Home with Rev. Wade Adkins officiating.

The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service.

Inurnment will follow in Old Mt. Zion Cemetery in Clanton, Alabama.

“I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith:”
— II Timothy 4:7 (KJV)

Final care and arrangements entrusted to the Ellison Memorial Funeral Home of Clanton, AL.

www.EllisonMemorialFuneralHome.com