James Morris

James Morris, 77, of Gloucester, passed away surrounded by his loving family after a period of declining health due to pulmonary fibrosis on Wednesday, April 17, at Massachusetts General Hospital. Born in Gloucester, he was the son of the late William and Jessie (Hay) Morris. He was the loving husband of Margaret (Malen) Morris with whom he shared 43 years of marriage before his passing.

Known as Jim by those from the East Coast and Jay by Alaskans, James was born and raised in Gloucester. James started working as a lobsterman while in high school to earn money for college. He was accepted into University of Alaska Fairbanks (UAF) in 1965. To pay for school, he worked with his brothers Bud and Norm in the summer, going to Alaska for the lucrative fishing opportunities. James earned his B.A. in justice in 1988 from the UAF.

James started his career at the University Fire Department in 1968 and was hired on full time by the Fairbanks Fire Department in 1973. He worked through the ranks and retired as deputy fire chief and fire marshal in 1993. James' proudest career accomplishment was his role in reducing fire-related mortality rates in Fairbanks 95% from previous years through his enforcement of building codes as chief fire inspector.

James moved back to Gloucester with his family in 1993. James was devoted to his family first. He loved to travel with his wife and children. James was a natural storyteller who enjoyed regaling stories about natural and family histories.

James was survived by his wife, Margaret Morris; four children, Martha McConnell and her husband Matt, Sarah Morris, Sandra Morris, Paul Morris and his wife Katie along with grandchildren Ella and Lydia Morris; and brother, William "Bud" Morris. He was predeceased by his sister, Gilberta "Pet" Morrison, and brothers, John "Jack" Morris and Norman Morris.

A graveside service for James will be held at Beechbrook Cemetery, 401 Essex Ave., Gloucester, on Friday, May 3, at 11:30 a.m. followed immediately by a coalition at Trinity Congregational Church, 70 Middle Street, Gloucester. Relatives and friends are invited to attend. Contributions may be made in James' memory to Pulmonary Fibrosis Fund by texting PFFTribute to 71777 or go to igfn.us/vf/PFFTribute; the mailing address is Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation, 230 E. Ohio St., Suite 500, Chicago, IL 60611.

Arrangements by Campbell Funeral, 61 Middle St., Gloucester. Information, directions, condolences at www.campbellfuneral.com.