John Leland "Jay" Morris

MORRIS, JOHN LELAND "JAY", 71, passed away peacefully on October 27, 2025, at Kansas Medical Center in Andover, surrounded by his loving family.

Jay was born on March 1, 1954, in Iola, Kansas, to Kenneth "Bud" and Onetta "Marie" (Audiss) Morris. He grew up with strong family roots and a deep sense of community that shaped the man he became. Jay attended and graduated from Iola High School in 1973, and soon after, he began a lifelong career of service and protection - one that reflected his steady heart and caring nature.

In 1975, Jay met the light of his life, Beverly Eccles, and the two were married on February 28, 1976. Their nearly 50 years together were filled with love, laughter, and countless adventures. Whether running the community pool at Andover Estates, sharing time with friends, or cruising the open road on his motorcycle - especially on rides to Branson - Jay embraced life with energy and joy.

Jay served proudly as a police officer in Humboldt, Chanute, and Andover before joining the Sedgwick County Courthouse as a security officer, where he faithfully served until his retirement in 2015. Even after retiring, Jay's dedication to keeping others safe never wavered. He continued to serve as a security guard for the Sisters of St. Joseph Convent in Wichita and later at the refinery in El Dorado. His calm, reassuring presence and warm smile were a comfort to all who encountered him.

Jay was also known for his love of sports - as a player, a coach, and an umpire. He played and coached softball and baseball for many years, earning the nickname "Home Run King" in his softball league. His love for teamwork extended well beyond the field, as he brought that same spirit of encouragement and friendship to everyone around him.

Jay was also deeply devoted to his church family at Three Wooden Crosses Cowboy Church. He was always eager to lend a hand, work security for events, or simply greet everyone with that familiar, friendly smile that made people feel welcome and cared for.

Though Jay had a bit of an ornery streak, it was always paired with a heart of gold. He had a protective nature, a reassuring presence, and a deep love for those close to him - especially his beloved poodles, Genger and Coco.

Jay is survived by his loving wife, Beverly; brother Dennis Morris; sister Datha Curby; brothers-in-law Bill Eccles, Art Eccles, and David Eccles; stepbrother-in-law Jeff Paskin; stepsister-in-law Judy Westerman; and many nieces, nephews, other family, and dear friends. He was preceded in death by his parents Bud and Marie; brothers Marvin Morris, Bobby Ray Morris, and Kenneth "Butch" Morris; father-in-law Leo Eccles; mother-in-law Freda Eccles Paskin; brothers-in-law Alan Eccles and Dale Eccles; niece Erica; stepfather-in-law Frank Paskin; stepsisterin-law Jill Paskin; nephew-in-law Austin Bickford, nephew David Curby; and his faithful dog Mr. G.

A funeral service to celebrate Jay's life will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, November 8, 2025, at Three Wooden Crosses Cowboy Church, 5118 SW 100th St, Augusta, Kansas. Jay will be laid to rest later that day at 2:00 p.m. in Gridley Cemetery on SW Emmer Lane in Gridley, Kansas.

The family requests that memorial donations be made to the Three Wooden Crosses Cowboy Church Building Fund, 5118 SW 100th St, Augusta, KS 67010.

Jay's legacy is one of faith, friendship, and love - a life lived with purpose, humor, and heart. His gentle strength, loyalty, and kindness will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing him. He will be dearly missed but forever remembered.

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