James Robert Morris

September 29, 1933- August 7, 1998

James Robert Morris was born to Hezekiah and Amanda Jones Morris,Sr. on September 29, 1933.  He was the fifth child of seven: Moses, Hezekiah, Jerome, Alton, Leander and Vivian.  James was raised in a God-fearing home full of music and ministry.  His father pastored St. Paul's High Street Baptist Church and Star of Bethlehem Missionary Baptist Church.  While his mother played and taught music to all who had the desire to learn.  The emphasis on music and God was instilled in the family and displayed in the organization of the "Morris Brothers" singing group. James carried the bass for the quartet. They traveled and ministered through song along with supporting their father at the church.

He married the former Sallie Mae Millner of Ridgeway, Virginia on August 20, 1960. On July 10, 1963, the couple welcomed their first child, Derrick JaSal. August 2, 1968, their second son arrived, DaRon JeSie and August 10, 1974, thier third child, daughter DaManda JaMese completed the family unit.

As an active member of the Mayo Missionary Baptist Church, Morris served on many organizations including director of the Heavenly Stars Chorus. March 1, 1981, James entered into a new segment of his life, by accepting the calling into the ministry and preaching his trial sermon, "Being About his Father's Businsess".  On the second Sunday of November 1983, Rev. James Morris became pastor of Star of Bethlehem Missionary Baptist Church where he served until he crossed over into eternity.

Rev. Morris believed and focused all his attention on the success of children.  He made sure his home and church were a nurturing ground for anyone who needed it.  He would go above and beyond to make sure his children were supported.  He even wrapped himself up on a very cold night (after having his first heart attack) to stand with his son on the football field for parents' night. Support for all children was the lesson he left to his family, church and community.  For he stood on

"Where there is no vision, the people perish" - Proverbs 29:18.