Tommey James Morris, Sr.

With profound sorrow, we announce the passing of Tommey James Morris Sr. on September 16, 2023, in Odessa, TX. His journey on this earth may have ended, but his eternal legacy lives on. Tommey was a beacon of strength, service, and wisdom. Join us in honoring the indelible mark Tommey James Morris Sr. left on all our hearts.

 Born November 6, 1943, to Raymond and Bobbie Morris in Odessa, TX, Tommey was the second born of five sons of this union: Bobby, Tommey, Raymond, Alvin, and Danny. May 7, 1990, Tommey married Vina Delmar Blacknall in Odessa, TX. To this union, Tommey James Morris Jr. was born. The family attended the Highland & Bunche Church of Christ in Odessa, TX under the leadership of Brother Gene Collins.

Tommey was a 1962 graduate of Odessa’s Blackshear Junior Senior High School. His early years were marked by determination and excellence. From the hallways of Blackshear, he was recognized as an exceptional student as well as a star athlete lettering in football, basketball, and track. As a member of the Blackshear PVIL 1961 2A State Track Team, Tommey’s proud moment was when he clinched a gold medal at the 1961 State Track Meet in the 180-yard low hurdles.

Tommey's dedication to his country was evident when he joined the United States Air Force September 6, 1962. Serving with honor and distinction, he was honorably discharged September 2, 1966.. This commitment to service didn't end with his military tenure. On returning to Texas, he began what would become a long and honorable career in law enforcement, further dedicating himself to the safety and well-being of his community. Tommey was employed by the Odessa Police Department for 26 years and Ector County Independent School District as a campus police for 18 years. Tommey retired from ECISD in 2011.

Later he returned to the place that held his heart: Odessa, Texas. As a stalwart protector of his community until his last breath, he was not just an officer but also a mentor and supporter in the community. Tommey's love for sports and the youth of Odessa knew no bounds. A steadfast fan of Permian High School sports, he played an instrumental role in shaping the lives of many young athletes. Football games, track meets, basketball games, if the Permian Panthers were playing, you could be sure Tommey was there cheering them on.

 Tommey is preceded in death by his parents, Raymond and Bobbie Morris; and four brothers, Bobby, Raymond, Alvin, and Danny. Tommey's legacy extends to his loving family.

 He is survived by his devoted wife, Vina Morris; his sons, Weldon Bryant (Cindy), Lindsay Garnett (June), Dronn Jackson, Eric Roman, Tommey Morris Jr., and J'hki Atchison; his beloved daughters, Latonya Morris, Samantha Morris, Michelle Kendricks, and Chasitti Atchison; his godson, Sheldon Bass (Kizzie); 15 grandchildren and 18 great grandchildren; other family and friends.

His life may have been defined by service and dedication, but it was enriched by the love and joy he shared with his family and the Odessa community. In celebrating his life, we not only remember a serviceman, a sports enthusiast, and a community leader but also a loving husband, father, and mentor.

Tommey Morris will be lying in state with Odessa Police Department as Honor Guard, from 6 PM to 8 PM, Friday, September 29, 2023, at Blackshear Elementary Frizella Whitaker Auditorium.

Funeral service will be at 1:00 PM, Saturday, September 30, 2023, at Blackshear Elementary Frizella Whitaker Auditorium with Brother Gene Collins officiating, burial will follow at Sunset Memorial Gardens.