KARL SHERIDAN MORRIS

In Loving Memory of Karl Sheridan Morris

Karl Sheridan Morris, 85, of Lubbock, Texas, passed away peacefully on January 12, 2025. Born in Sweetwater, Texas, in 1939, Karl grew up in a close-knit family with his parents, Evangeline and Carlos, and his sister, Rosemary.

Karl's childhood in Sweetwater was one he cherished throughout his life. He loved biking through town to visit family-his mother's siblings and grandparents-and could navigate the streets by memory even decades later. His father's parents lived next door for a time, deepening the sense of community that shaped him. He took great pride in playing nose tackle for Sweetwater High School and their run to the Texas State Championship.

After graduating, Karl attended North Texas State College, where his knack for building lifelong friendships flourished. His college years brought plenty of adventures with his friends Jack Byrd and Emil Shattel, including an infamous houseboat mishap that left them bailing water before they could settle in. He also loved recounting stories of rafting through Mexico with friends after their horseback adventure plans didn't pan out.

Karl eventually settled in Lubbock, Texas, where he built his career as a property manager, raised his family, and became deeply involved in the community. He and his first wife, Georgia, had two children, Kari and Nathan. Georgia passed away in 2007, and Karl later married Joanie Russell. Joanie brought two daughters, Elizabeth and Jenny, into Karl's life, along with their children and grandchildren, who all enriched his later years.

Church played a significant role in Karl's life, particularly through his long association with St. Christopher's Episcopal Church in Lubbock. From serving on the vestry to early morning Bible studies and bringing communion to the homebound with Joanie, Karl found purpose and connection in his church community.

Karl was also active in numerous social and professional groups throughout his life. Whether attending Toastmasters, real estate gatherings, Tae Kwon Do or other clubs, he cherished connection and community. Rising early to attend these meetings became a cornerstone of his routine.

Karl is survived by his wife, Joanie; his daughter, Kari Morris; his son, Nathan Morris (and wife, Ali); his grandchildren, Dale, Harrison, Josephine, Evangeline, and Rowan; Joanie's daughters, Elizabeth and Jenny, and their children and grandchildren; and his sister, Rose, of Sweetwater, TX. He is preceded in death by his parents, Evangeline and Carlos, and his first wife, Georgia.

A memorial service will be held at St. Christopher's Episcopal Church in Lubbock on February 8, 2025. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Karl's Quiet Kindness Fund on GoFundMe.com/karls-quiet-kindness.

An additional remembrance will be held at Sweetwater Cemetery at the Morris Family Plot at 2pm on Friday, February 7th. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Karl's Quiet Kindness Fund on GoFundMe.com/karls-quiet-kindness.

Karl will be remembered for his love of stories, his devotion to family, church, and community, and the meaningful connections he nurtured throughout his life.