By Staff
James Claudis “Red” Morris, 74, died peacefully at his home surrounded by his loving family, on Sunday April 11, 2010.
He was born February 13, 1936 to the late Benjamin Morris and Arra Long Morris. He was predeceased by his wife of 50 years, Eleanor Morris, brothers Benjamin Morris Jr. and Thomas Dolson Morris, sister Dorothy Moore and great grand daughter Mary Rosa.
He was a native of Rocky Mount where graduated from Bevenue High School 1954. He lettered in football, baseball, and basketball. He played American Legion baseball in Rocky Mt. and then he later was offered a scholarship to play baseball at East Carolina. He was a pitcher and 3rd baseman. He played baseball at Fort Bragg while in the National Guard.
He was a 1958 graduate of East Carolina with degrees in Social Studies and Health &PE. He later received a degree for Drivers Education, allowing him the privilege to teach many Washington County residents to drive.
He met Eleanor Morris in 1958 while student teaching in Robersonville. They moved to Plymouth in 1959 where he taught for more than 40 years. He was an amazingly kind man that loved people. He coached both youth and adult sports. He was a great instructor in many areas from coaching to repairing houses or just giving advice.
He along with his love, Eleanor, were avid PIRATES fans and donated to Athletic/Educational Scholarships, fed the ECU cheerleaders and traveled with the PIRATES for many years. Their PIRATE family was and is an amazing source of comfort. 
He was a dedicated husband, Daddy, Pawpaw, fishing partner and friend. He put his heart and soul into everything he did whether it was supporting his ECU Pirates or sharing his knowledge.
He is survived by his 2 children Jimmy, wife Liz, and Jakki, husband Mark, 3 grandchildren: Devon Morris and Summer Morris and Ashlee Sawyer. 2 great grandchildren Sebastian and Lily Morris. Special nieces and nephews and fishing buddy/brother in law Bob Jzyk.
Funeral service will be Wednesday, April 14 at 3 at Maitland Funeral Home Plymouth NC. Family will receive friends from 2 to 2:45 p.m. prior to funeral.
In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to ECU Educational Foundation or Community Hospice, 107 West Blvd Williamston NC 27892.
Arrangements by Maitland Funeral Plymouth.
Paid Obituary