REV. PAUL HENRY MORRIS

MORRIS, REV. PAUL HENRY God is love We give thanks for the life of Reverend Paul Henry Morris who passed away peacefully in his 99th year on January 27, 2022. Paul was born to Rev. John and Pearl Morris in 1923, at Chatsworth, Ontario. After graduating from Burks Falls High School, Paul went to the University of Toronto where he earned a B.A. and M.Div. While serving in the army in 1945, he visited San Francisco and witnessed Prime Minister MacKenzie King sign the United Nations Charter. This pivotal moment inspired Paul's lifelong interest in global affairs and international travels. Paul married his lifetime partner and love, Mary Lavern Hewson in 1952. Paul was ordained as a United Church Minister in 1954. He served many communities and parishes, including Humbervale United Church. While he was the minister at Humbervale he helped develop E.S.S. and Humbervale Place, serving seniors in the community to this day. He also served as Chairman of Toronto West Presbytery, and Executive Secretary of Toronto Conference. In retirement, he conducted weddings at The Old Mill in Toronto, bringing joy to many couples. Paul's interests in international affairs inspired him to write a proposal to United Nations Canada about Global Citizenship, which developed into the annual Global Citizenship Awards. Paul and Mary built a family cottage in the Almaguin Highlands where they enjoyed summers with their family. He enjoyed creating imaginative stories to entertain both his children and grandchildren while working on the cottage garden. Paul was predeceased by his beloved spouse Mary, his son Robert, and daughter Elizabeth, his brothers Rev. John and Rev. Bill Morris. Paul will always be remembered by his surviving children Stephen (spouse Sandra Morris, nee McLaren), Anna (spouse Brad Bailey), and Margaret (spouse Carlos Teixeira); his son-in-law James Pelot (spouse Julie, nee Foyler). His stories will continue to be treasured by his grandchildren Ryan, David and Natalie, Benjamin and Sarah, and Joshua Teixeira; Andrew and Sharron Morris; Alice and Samuel Pelot; and Jennifer Bailey. His great-grandchildren, Ethan, Kaelyn, and Keira filled him with pure joy. Paul's family thanks the caring staff at E.S.S. for the support that they provided in his later years. The comfort that staff at Humber River Hospital provided in his final days is greatly appreciated. Anyone who knew Paul was touched by his kindness, a true peacemaker and a source of positivity. A Celebration of Life will be held at 11 a.m. on June 4th at Humbervale United Church, 1447 Royal York Road. For information, please call 416-249-2821. Donations in memory of Rev. Paul Morris can be made to "Humbervale United Church-Outreach" or Greater Toronto United Way https://www.unitedwaygt.org/take-action/ways-to-give/donate/