Brian A. Morris

Brian A. Morris, 39, of Monmouth, IL, passed away on Thursday, March 5, 2026 at OSF Holy Family Medical Center, Monmouth, IL.

He was a beacon of love and joy whose life's journey began on May 8, 1986, in Tacoma, Washington. Although born in the Evergreen State, Brian spent most of his life in Illinois, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of those who knew him. His early years were spent in Peoria, Illinois, surrounded by the love of his great grandmother Patricia "Pat" Hay, and great aunt, Diane Dubios, and cousins Mark Elmore, and Susan Lane, who instilled in him the values of compassion and kindness.

At 13, Brian's life path led him to Oquawka, Illinois, where he attended Union High School in Biggsville, graduating in 2005. This milestone marked a new chapter in his life as he moved to Monmouth, Illinois, where he would reside for over two decades. Brian's professional journey included dedicated service at Americold Cold Storage in Monmouth and later at the Walmart distribution center, where he had the joy of working alongside his father, Shannon Crooks. However, Brian's greatest legacy is the boundless love and pride he had for his children, Bayli and Chaystin Morris. When not spending time with his kids, Brian loved relaxing at home with his close-knit family, including his best friend and roommate, Amanda Smith, her daughters Akerah Smith and Lita Cook, and his loyal canine companion, Autumn. Brian's love for animals, inherited from his mother, Rhonda Crooks, was a testament to his gentle soul, he never met an animal he couldn't befriend.

Brian is survived by his beloved children, Bayli and Chaystin Morris; his parents, Rhonda and Shannon Crooks; his sisters, Ashanti Crooks, Elliana Anderton, Jordyn McGrath, Natasha VerVynck, Schyler Gann, and Sheli Martin; his brothers, Douglyn and Kelial Crooks; and a multitude of aunts and uncles, including Uncle "Jimmy", Brandon Crooks, Jon and Karissa Byrd, Aunt Lindsey, Aunt Tammy, Justin Crooks, Ora and Tammy Peel, Ronald and Theresa White, and Tim and Corina White. He also leaves behind his grandparents, Douglas and Cyndee Hardsty, and Norris and Cheryl Crooks, Patricia "Pat" Hay, as well as numerous great aunts and uncles.

Brian was preceded in death by his cherished great aunt, Diane Dubios, his grandparents, Ronald and Sandy White and Great Grandparents Raymond and Vivian Stiertmatter.

A Celebration of Life will be announced at a later date. Cremation rites have been accorded. Interment of his ashes will be in Oquawka Cemetery, Oquawka, IL. McGuire & Davies Funeral Home and Crematory, Monmouth, IL is in charge of the arrangements.