Wayne Hughes Morris, Sr., (Gumby), 75 of Terre Haute, Indiana, passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, June 17, 2015 at 8:11 AM at Union Hospital in Terre Haute. He was born in Soperton, GA on August 12, 1939 to Eulene Morris and Cleo Humphrey Morris. He was a graduate of Indiana State University and a member of World Gospel Church. Wayne retired from Great Dane Trailers, RDC and served in the Georgia Air National Guard. He was an avid outdoorsman and loved hunting with his sons. Wayne loved being with his family and friends. His one of a kind positive attitude, compassion and generous spirit flowed over daily to his family, friends and all who met him. He loved cruising the neighborhood on his 4-wheeler getting the scoop, feeding the birds and gardening. Wayne coached many youth sports teams and was a board member of the “Old Geezer’s” Breakfast Club. He never met a stranger. Wayne (Dad/Gumby) “we love you and you will be deeply missed”.
He is preceded in death by his parents, sisters Eloise Newsome, Dallas Rutherford, and Dorothy Holland.
He is survived by his wife of 53 years, Joyce Rogers Morris, sons Wayne H. Morris, Jr. (Tracy) and Charles “Chip” Morris and beloved dog Max. Also surviving are his grandchildren Bryttany (Jeremy), Chase and Eliza, and great granddaughter Brynley Jane, extended family Adriana, Alaina, and James. Other survivors include his brothers Jimmy Morris (Jennie) of Ocala, FL, Charles Morris of Daytona Beach, FL, a sister-in-law Joan Collins (Mickey) of Savannah, Georgia and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. A friend used this quote to describe Gumby: “Do not go where the path may lead, go instead where there is no path and leave a trail”.
According to his wishes no services will be held. Memorial contributions can be made to Riley Children’s Hospital, 705 Riley Hospital Drive, Indianapolis, IN 46202 (317-944-5000).
DeBaun Wabash Chapel, 2425 Wabash Ave., is in charge of arrangements.