Richard Edward Morris was born in Albany, Georgia on October 24, 1945.  He was the beloved son of Corine Morris and the late Billy Morris, Sr.

He was educated in the Dougherty County School System, graduating from Monroe Comprehensive High School in 1963.   Throughout school, Richard was a perceptive, astute young man with an insatiable appetite for knowledge and a developing passion for law enforcement.  He valued education and took advantage of every opportunity to learn and grow.

Ready to serve his country, Richard enlisted in the United States Army where he served as a military police officer.  He was assigned to posts throughout the United States and abroad—most notably Okinawa, Japan.  During his military career, he was the recipient of numerous awards and commendations as he advanced through the ranks.  Richard was a soldier to the core and the discipline and patriotism he learned in the Army never left him.  He retired in 1987 with the rank of Sergeant and, thereafter, transitioned to employment as a security officer with the Veterans Affairs Hospital in Rockford, Illinois.

Richard enjoyed a highly active and enjoyable life, including membership in several organizations.  He was a Shriner and member of Ossipe Temple #65 Desert of Georgia and District Commander of the American Legion Post 240 in Rockford, Illinois.  He was a staunch supporter of the Madison-Monroe reunion and it gave him great joy to see and fellowship with his classmates.  Devoted husband, awesome father, selfless and loving son, doting grandfather, committed brother, nurturing uncle, and loyal cousin, Richard loved his family with all his heart.  Sharing time with family and friends was among his greatest treasures.

Although Richard's earthly departure on Monday, January 17, 2022, leaves a void in the hearts of family and friends, his spirit of caring and support will never be forgotten.  In addition to his father, he was predeceased by two siblings, Evelyn and Billy Jr.

Cherished memories will forever remain with his mother, Corine Morris; his wife, Estella Bernice Morris; sons, Duane Edward Morris of Columbus, GA and Terrance Keith Morris of Waldorf, MD; siblings, Helen Morris, Joseph Morris, and Bernard Morris of Albany, GA, Deidre (Robert) Cosby of Valdosta, GA, Corona Morris of Jacksonville, FL, Charlene Shannon of Columbus, OH, and Michael (Shirlette) Morris of Milledgeville, GA; eleven stepchildren; four grandchildren and three great grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, aunts, cousins, and friends.