Deacon J. D. Morris

Deacon J. D. Morris, 84, of Peoria, IL, peacefully entered eternal rest on Monday, July 20, 2026, at 9:00 p.m., at OSF Saint Francis Medical Center in Peoria, Illinois, surrounded by the love of his family. Deacon J. D Morris. was born on November 7, 1941, in Olyphant, Arkansas, to the late Edward Morris and Tyretha (Howell) Morris. He attended W. F. Branch High School located in Newport, Arkansas before relocating to Peoria, Illinois, where he established a life defined by faith, family, hard work, and service to others. On June 27, 1970, J. D. married the love of his life, Willie Mae (Carlisle) Morris. Their marriage was an incredible testament to love, commitment, and God's grace, spanning 56 wonderful years. Together they built a home filled with faith and devotion and were blessed with four children: Timothy J. Morris, Tyrone Morris, Debra A. Morris-Busby,and Steven D. Morris. Deacon J. D. Morris was a dedicated employee of Caterpillar Inc., where he faithfully served for 31½ years before retiring in 1997. Never one to stop serving, he continued working as a limousine driver for Simon Mortuary and T. W. Parks Colonial Chapel, providing compassionate service to countless families during their times of need. He later served for nearly 20 years as a crossing guard for Peoria Public School District 150, where his friendly smile, watchful eye, and caring spirit became familiar to generations of students and parents. A devoted man of God, Deacon J. D. Morris was a faithful member of New Morning Star Missionary Baptist Church in Peoria, Illinois. He served with humility and dedication as a Deacon and joyfully lifted his voice as the lead singer of the Unity and Men Choirs. His unwavering faith, servant's heart, and willingness to help others made him a beloved member of his church family and the Peoria community. Family was the greatest joy of J. D.'s life. He treasured every role God blessed him with—as a devoted husband, loving father, proud grandfather, cherished great-grandfather, caring uncle, loyal cousin, and faithful friend. He was known for his quiet strength, gentle wisdom, warm smile, and vibrant spirit. As a provider and protector, he placed the needs of others before his own and demonstrated God's love through his kindness, humility, generosity, and unwavering support. His life was an astonishing example of faith in action, and his legacy will continue to inspire all who were blessed to know him. He leaves to cherish his precious memory to his beloved wife of 56 years, Willie Mae Morris; his children, Timothy J. Morris of Peoria, Illinois, Debra A. (Andra Sr.) Morris-Busby of Slidell, Louisiana, and Steven D. Morris of Peoria, Illinois; six beloved grandchildren, Alexus (Todd) Young of Rosenberg, Texas, Tieriney Morris of Chicago, Illinois, Andra II (Shikema) Busby of San Antonio, Texas, Alaysia Morris of Peoria, Illinois, Trinity Morris of St. Louis, Missouri, and Karter Morris of Peoria, Illinois; four treasured great-grandchildren, Allura Busby, Tyrin Young, Andra Busby III, and Tajh Young; three godchildren ,Christopher Jenkins, Jershawn Gulley and Dewayne Banks Jr. and a host of loving nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, church family, and dear friends whose lives were enriched by his presence. He was preceded in death by his parents, Edward Morris and Tyretha Howell Morris; his beloved twin son, Tyrone Morris; his brothers, Miller "Junior" Ellis, Jr., Gene Autry Morris, and George Morris; and his sisters, Irma Ruth (James) Ross, Freida Mae Ellis, Irmagean Braggs, Cozetter (John Jr) Gwynn, Clamer (Joe III) Fields, and Rita Jo (Haneefah) Ivory. Although our hearts grieve his passing, we rejoice in knowing that J. D.'s race has been run, his work on earth is complete, and he now rests peacefully in the presence of his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. His life was marked by unwavering faith, unconditional love, steadfast service, and quiet strength. His legacy lives on in the family he cherished, the lives he touched, and the countless memories that will forever be engraved in hearts that held him close. His love endures. His faith inspires. His selflessness was astonishing. His legacy lives forever. Funeral services will be held at 11 am on Friday, July 31, 2026, at New Morning Star M.B. Church with a visitation one hour prior at 10 am. Pastor Cleveland Thomas, Sr. will officiate. Deacon J. D. will be laid to rest at Swan Lake Memory Gardens. Simons Mortuary has been entrusted with arrangements. Online condolences may be shared at SimonsMortuary.com.

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Deacon J. D. Morris

November 7, 1941 - July 20, 2026