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Howard Morris Obituary
Morris died Saturday of natural causes, his son David said Monday.
He enjoyed a long show business career, but is best-remembered as the love-challenged hillbilly on "Andy Griffith." His fan Web site is named for the character that appeared in just a few episodes, but made a big impact with viewers.
Morris served in the Army's entertainment unit during World War II and was stationed in Hawaii. After the war, he had a brief stint as a Shakespearian actor.
In the 1950s, he joined a comedy sketch group including Carl Reiner and Imogene Coca on several TV variety shows, including "Admiral Broadway Review," "Your Show of Shows" and "Caesar's Hour."
After his work on "The Andy Griffith Show," Morris provided the voices for several animated television show characters, including Beetle Bailey and Atom Ant. He is also credited as the "third buffalo" in a Flintstones episode that aired in 1963.
He also directed TV shows and films, including the pilot episode of the Mel Brooks series "Get Smart," the Doris Day film "With Six you get Eggroll," and the film version of Woody Allen's "Don't Drink the Water," starring Jackie Gleason.
Morris was born in New York City on Sept. 4, 1919. He married and divorced five times.
Copyright © 2005 The Associated Press
248 Entries
Cheryl Talbot
January 9, 2025
The legacy Howard Morris left us with is one that will stand the test of time. His ability to go beyond the character and bring that character to life is such a testament to his gift as an actor. He will forever live in my heart as Ernest T Bass. He was truly a joy to watch over and over again as that character. Thank you for leaving us with joys in making us laugh and for all you taught us. Cheryl Talbot
Leslie Redaway
October 16, 2024
Rest In Heaven
Michael Cantrell
August 18, 2024
I always like him he was the best thing on the show
Fernando Cepeda
November 24, 2021
He was what made "The Andy Griffith Show" worth watching. Too bad he wasn't in more episodes. He truly was a funny man!
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Donna Kind
July 26, 2021
Howard Morris Is A Funny Guy On The Andy Griffith Show He Is Sooooooooooooooooo Funny On The Show And He Makes Me Laugh Alot
October 13, 2020
I love him in Mel Brook's "High Anxiety" and of course as Ernest T Bass! Rest in Peace sir, thank you for the joy.
michael cantrell
May 22, 2020
I like him the best
Patricia Neal
May 1, 2020
Loved the character of Ernest T. Bass. Will never forget how much we always enjoyed watching Ernest. Thinking of Howard in Heaven and praying for his family.
April 29, 2020
He was a beautiful person, funny on the Andy Gifffin show,He will be the best of ever, My prayer's and love goes out to family, just a wonderful man, he will be in are heart's for ever,
Nadezhda Wall-Rossi
April 29, 2020
I remember Howard Morris' hilarious impersonation of Elvis Presley on the old Steve Allen show. He was wonderful as Ernest T. Bass and we enjoyed his appearances on the Twilight Zone immensely. He was such a versatile actor, classically trained. He could do it all.
steven pegram
February 3, 2020
I loved earnest to bass. Howard Morris
Connie Sutherland
November 22, 2019
I loved every episode featuring Ernest T. Bass ... even as teenager, I was so impressed that this obviously intelligent and talented man was able to become -- so believably! -- the "mountain man." "It's me, it's me ... Ernest T.!" I LOVED seeing him transform himself for The Andy Griffith Show. He was amazing, and I still seek out the reruns on ME TV. Great show, yes, and Howard Morris was, in my opinion, a gleaming highlight.
I'm a fan. :-)
Tabatha Taylor
October 31, 2019
I Loved Earnest T Bass he played such a good character on andy Griffith show. Sending prayers to the family.
James Savage
September 25, 2019
He was a must see actor that I still watch on the re-runs! He was the best!
Sharon Whittemore
September 1, 2019
Thanks for the laughs
Paul Price
August 1, 2019
I have watched him so many times he was so funny RIP EARNEST BASS
July 23, 2019
Earnest t bass was Mayberry
Scott Haymes
July 22, 2019
What a thrill to be able to give tribute to this legend. I want him and his family to know that his presence affected so many in such a positive way. Its a rare thing to enjoy a unique personality and Mr Morris was the embodiment of this force. God be with you good man.
Dorothy Leftenant
July 18, 2019
In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always.
Tressa Slater
July 15, 2019
Howard Morris was a funny character on the And Griffith show. He made us all laugh with his wittiness, rock throwing window smashing crazy antics. Rest in Peace "AKA" Ernest T. Bass! Your memory will live on!
July 11, 2019
Condolences to the family,friends,&fans
Tamara Bragg
July 8, 2019
I have watched Andy Griffith over and over..... and the Ernest T Bass episodes are my favorites. What a Blessing to be able to make people laugh till their belly hurts! Laughter truly is the best medicine, and Howard Morris knew it!
Judy Lee
July 4, 2019
Watching an episode of Andy Griffin called Mountain Wedding & laughing hysterically at Howard Morris portrayal of Ernest T Bass...... great actor, may he continue to rest in peace
Lynda Russell
June 13, 2019
Thank you for making us laugh, we will always laugh when we watch you, we just love you and always will, condolences to your family, Love and Prayers for your family....
Eydie Romano
May 13, 2019
Thanks for all the laughs! The character you portrayed will live forever making your footprint a forever loved one.
May 8, 2019
you are the greatest
Robin Moman
April 25, 2019
Although, "The Andy Griffith Show" aired before I was born, I still watch all the old episodes with great joy. I appreciate the sensitivity, humanity and life you gave to good ole Ernest T. Bass. You made him a real down to earth human being. I learned from good ole Earnest how important it is for all of us to simply be who we are and not feel inferior to those who look down on us through their noses. All Earnest wanted was to love, be loved and be treated with simple humanity. I, also, adored you in Mel Brooks' "History Of The World Part 1". You will always be remembered as a true on screen master who gave incredible life, realism, humanity and comedic genius to all the characters you've portrayed. Future generations will come to love and follow good ole Earnest T. Bass as he leads them to your more serious character portrayals. You, too, are another on screen great who'll be emulated by future actors. RIP, my friend, Howard "Earnest T. Bass" Morris. Love Always.
Ellane Morgan
April 6, 2019
Great actor!
Steve Martin
March 25, 2019
Love the show , still watch it all the time , He made me laugh so much , I actually watch the show most nights at bed time , it puts me to sleep in a peaceful way , sorry to his family for your loss , think he is in Heaven throwing rocks lol !
Linda Underwood
March 18, 2019
I dearly loved him! He played the part earnest t. Bass so we'll. Will be sadly missed.
Gail Smith
February 12, 2019
Praying for family I've always loved watching him on Andy Griffith show
Samantha Kislek
January 30, 2019
I loved Ernest T. Bass on Andy Griffith. He will most definitely be missed.
M S
January 6, 2019
Ernest T Bass is why I watched Andy Griffith. Such a funny loved Character and can't imagine anyone else playing that role. Glad he lived a long life but still sad for his family's loss. Prayers for his loved ones.
Eric Gambrell
December 31, 2018
Love your accent on the show
Nancy LYNN
December 9, 2018
It's me, it's me, It's Earnest T.
Fondly remembered. ❤
GlorIa Jenkins
December 3, 2018
It's
me it's it's me it's ernest God bless you
Latonya Toni Watkins
November 22, 2018
He was the best my favorite made me laugh awesome actor I still laugh at his character RIP peace to you always
James and tina Monholland
November 16, 2018
We grew up on ernest t bass .and we broke a few of windows to lol
maureen hill
October 1, 2018
loved him
Sharon Whittemore
September 24, 2018
Rest in Peace my favorite hillbilly.
Ron Krikorian
September 3, 2018
Mr morris you were the best in all the shows of andy griffith. The whole cast was phenominal. I wish i could go back to the 60's. I was thin, handsome, and i wasnt battling cancer. God bless!!
Mary Williams
August 30, 2018
In these troubled times, it is so important to focus on the good things in life that make us happy. Howie Morris made me happy from Your Show of Shows to the Andy Griffith Show . He will continue to entertain the generations to come.
Fred Cast Anita
August 20, 2018
Mr. Mr. Morris I couldn't wait to watch the the episodes of you as Ernest T bass you made me laugh so much and I got agree with Barney you we're at nut
Leola Chatman
August 16, 2018
The funniest man i ever watch rip earnest u gave joy to many who watched u n barney
Nadezhda Wall-Rossi
July 19, 2018
Your Ernest T. Bass will live on forever. Your take on Elvis Presley was the funniest we've ever seen. Thank you for the many hours of smiles and laughs you've given us.
John Lawson Sr.
July 2, 2018
Mr. Morris. I sure enjoyed watching you on The Andy Griffith Show. You are a true treasure to watch. R. I. P. Sir!
Angela Baldwin
June 22, 2018
I so loved you as Earnest T Bass rip
Cindy Gaona
April 14, 2018
I loved the episode when you were trying to get into the army..so funny and like another person mentioned..watching you and the whole Mayberry cast made me forget my problems for awhile..best show yet..wish was like that today..rip friend.
Sandra Brown
April 9, 2018
I so enjoyed you on "The Andy Griffith Show". You and your bag of rocks...hilarious! R.I.P., Sir.
Daryl Worrell
March 12, 2018
Howard you made all of us laugh on Andy Griffith show RSP.
K Morris
March 3, 2018
Howard Morris you were the most talented man. Acting and directing and the multiple voices you are one of a kind. I am watching an Andy Griffith marathon on 2 Sundance channels. That was a great show with good values and good people. The world should be more like that show. I wonder what your real voice was like. What a full life that was blessed. I wish you had written a book. See you in the next life Ernest T.
William Bennett
February 11, 2018
He was great on the show and will be sadly missed.
Nicole R
February 5, 2018
RIP
Charity McCutcheon
February 2, 2018
The best person that could have ever played Ernest T. Bass. You were one of TVs greatest actors. RIP
September 21, 2017
I fell in love with Ernest T Bass when I first saw him years ago. You're still in my heart, always.....
Victoria Taylor
August 26, 2017
I loved watching your performances on The Andy Griffith Show. When I watched you act it made me forget my own troubles for a while. So thanks for the memories and may you rest in peace.
Frankie Van Creef
May 23, 2017
Love is never lost or misplaced. Just as talent is not wasted, no matter how small the stage or audience, on those blessed with that indescribable urge to help people laugh and see humankind in a way that would not be witnessed, but for people like you Howard. Thank you for sharing your treasures.
Gary Scheer
May 21, 2017
I've always enjoyed your bit parts in tv and movies. Thank you.
Alberta Brown
May 16, 2017
Loved watching ur character Ernest T Bass on the Andy Griffith Show
Nazarene Mckinney
May 9, 2017
Ernest T Bass knew how to throw rocks and solicit howls of laughter. Thanks for the memories! May your loved ones have peace. The fans will always remember you! Jesus has promised a resurrection to life upon a paradise earth soon and death will be no more.
N. Allan Childers
May 3, 2017
You were one great actor you brought such joy for many people youll be with us f. Forever and one day we shall see you again
Bill Truett
March 16, 2017
You continue to make me smile after all these years. It truly must have been wonderful working with so many other talented individuals.
All of you will likely continue bringing happiness to many for years and years to come. May you rest in the Peace of God's presence. Thank you Howard.
George Miller
March 15, 2017
Miss you one of the funniest actors ever
Angelo Gonzalez
March 8, 2017
I'll always be watchin the Andy Griffith shows. Gives me peace . Truly the Best of the Best shows of all time.. R.I.P. Your family must be very proud. I Thank you..
Lisa Konermann
December 22, 2016
I miss this man on Andy Griffith I loved him so much! But he always put a smile on my face!
Allan White
November 28, 2016
Rest In Peace Howard Morris I will miss you I enjoyed watching you on television and all the voices you did in cartoons. I worked for United Artists.
Lisa Garcia
November 14, 2016
U will be greatly missed REST IN PEACE
Larry Harmon
September 20, 2016
Ask me no questions i tell you no lies thanks for the laughs Mr Morris R.I.P
Anthony Herbin
July 16, 2016
I was just sitting around thinking about who was still alive from the Andy Griffith show. I was sorry to see that mr Morris/ Ernest T Bass had passed. He was a good actor. May he R.I.P. will be missed.
Rhonda Cozart
July 15, 2016
Howard Morris , thank you for giving us Ernest T Bass!! I always laugh whenever an episode comes on with you in it. Great actor and director. Rest in peace.
PATRICIA GASTON
June 23, 2016
Thought of him this morning ....i wonder was he decease ... So i google it.. He will be miss for his work n his character on Andy Griffin as Ernest t Bass..RIP
Rob Beckam
May 25, 2016
:) Thank You Mr. Howard Morris Sir; I enjoyed your, Scrip's, (writing), Acting, Comedy, Directing, Wisdom, Much Laugher & Seeing ur Face on TV... Hollywood Could Surely use More People like You... You were so Uplifting... <3 Thank You Mr. Morris... I Salute You... Sincerely; Rob Beckham... Kissimmee, Fla... :)
Harry Simpson
May 21, 2016
Thank you for sharing a part of your life with us.
Rest Howard, until you hear at dawn,
the low, clear reveille of God.
Thank you for your service to this nation.
Kevin Walton
May 20, 2016
I was sorry to learn of Mr. Morris' passing. He was a wonderful character actor. It is memories like his portrayal of Ernest T. Bass that make my childhood such a wonderful time to remember. Hollywood could use more quality people like Mr. Morris. May he rest in eternal peace with the Lord.
April 4, 2016
LOVED TO WATCH HIM IN HIS CHARACTER EARNEST T. BASS. I ALSO HAD THE PLEASURE OF MEETING HOWARD AT A MAYBERRY REUNION IN CHARLOTTE NORTH CAROLINA. THANKS SO MUCH FOR SOME REALLY GREAT MEMORIES HOWARD.
WITH LOVE FROM MUSCLE SHALS ALABAMA,
KEITH LANDERS
Bridgett Coleman
November 24, 2015
Enjoyed him on the Grrifth show
He made me laugh and was a great actor just watched him tonight
Bribgett Coleman
November 24, 2015
Enjoyed him on the Grrifth show
He made me laugh and was a great actor just watched him tonight
L. Silva
November 19, 2015
I liked Ernest t.Bass, he was a funny guy, you could have a few good laughs! Read in peace! ERNIE
Lynnm Silva
November 19, 2015
He was the funniest cast member of all. Will kiss the good laughs!
September 4, 2015
A funny and intelligent man. He will be missed. I love reruns of Andy Griffith.
-Judy c Woodruff sc
August 3, 2015
A very interesting character and colourful personality. He is a natural, unique and very talented in his ability to perform very funny and ridiculous kinds of behaviors. Kinda love the guy.
Lee Summers
March 13, 2015
One or the funniest character on the show gonna miss you just keep on throwing rocks in heaven rip
wanda odonnell
January 16, 2015
Will be misshe was the funniest guy i ever seen he was awsome .R.I.P.
charles thornton
December 30, 2014
Never be another.gone but never forgotton...
Glendora Davis
October 23, 2014
His talent will be missed i loved that guy. His role Andy and Mayberry Show.
One of a kind.
Mary Irvin
October 16, 2014
What year did Mr. Morris die in he was a good and funny after on Andy Griffin I really loved watching him
Patricia Poet
September 24, 2014
I've loved Howie Morris from Sid Caesar shows forward. Guess I was 4 or 5 then but knew that this man was incredibly funny. From then to this day, I'm delighted to find work by Mr. Morris. I giggle just thinking of him. He must have been a delight to be around, so childlike. I adore him. My heart goes out to his family and friends, who I'm sure miss him still, but the laughter in Heaven is louder still with Howard Morris there. We'll all see each other again in the twinkling of an eye.
Rachel Thomas
December 30, 2013
Mr Morris you were one of a kind. I love you
Jack Alexander
July 9, 2013
You made the greatest television show in history even better. Living in a rural\small town setting all of my life I have known some Ernest T's. The character is unforgettable. You nailed it Mr. Morris.
Jack Alexander
Mount Eden Ky
Connie Douglas
December 3, 2012
I love Howard Morris - he was a great actor. This man is a genius and so funny. I love to watch him dance and to add by stomping his feet. I will forever love him as Ernst T. Bass. God Bless Mr. Howard Morris !!!!
Valerie Jackson
July 5, 2012
I always enjoyed Mr. Morris' appearance as the TV repairman who, with adorable Barney, interrupted yet another picnic for Andy and Helen. I recently received a birthday card to "Mrs. Wiley." God bless, Mr. Morris. You were one of a kind!!!
mary stanley
July 4, 2012
rest in peace howard morris
cindy medley
July 4, 2012
i liked when you say it,s me it,s me it,s earnest t bass rest in peacce
July 3, 2012
it,s me it,s me its earnest t bass rip let god be with you and andy too
Terecia Hunter
May 20, 2012
Earnest T Bass you were the best. Will miss you.
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