Gerald Joseph Morris

1948 - 2025

It is with great sorrow that we announce the passing of Gerald J. Morris. After five years of fighting heart disease, he succumbed to his illness with dignity and courage on August 25, 2025, at the age of 76.

Gerald was born in Watsonville, California on September 27, 1948, to his parents Joe and Helen Morris. His parents were local apple and apricot farmers in what was known as The Green Valley. Gerald was born into a community of Portuguese immigrants from the Azores, and their descendants. A heritage he was proud to claim.

Growing up on a farm teaches you a lot of life skills at a young age. You learn to treat the land with respect, develop a strong work ethic, and learn how to be responsible. Farming was much more than a job; it was a lifestyle. Gerald's "farm childhood" would help shape his identity. He learned the value of community when his cousins and other family members would come over during apricot season to help with pitting and drying. Growing up on a farm gave him the experience of the simplicity of rural life. Morris Farm wasn't just a place, it was a sanctuary that nurtured his growth and provided memories he would cherish forever.

A few years ago, a doctor at the Veteran's Administration asked Gerald, "Tell me one of your favorite memories from childhood," he didn't hesitate before responding, "Salsipuedes Little League!" His dad, Joe Morris, had been a founding father, and had also been his coach. He said his father would stop and pick up kids along the way (especially the catcher!), who needed a ride. Joe Morris set a powerful example to his children by being an active participant. Gerald learned teamwork, sportsmanship, and fair play under his coaching, guidance, and good example. A profound love of sports would follow Gerald for the rest of his life.

Gerald was a graduate of Watsonville High School, class of 1966. After high school, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy. It was the Vietnam War era, and Gerald would be assigned to the USS Truxton, a nuclear-powered surface ship that had a distinguished career, including deployments to the Vietnam War. He worked in radar, playing a crucial role in tracking aircraft and providing vital information to our pilots and other naval personnel. Following his time in the Navy, Gerald took advantage of the G.I. Bill and returned to college receiving a bachelor's degree from Fresno State in business and finance. Eventually, he would become a mortgage broker, opening his own business, Capital Finance in Watsonville. He proudly helped clients navigate the process of home ownership and accomplish the American Dream. He was willing to go the extra distance with patience and infectious laughter, all the while bonding over a loan application and the process.

He was a great cook who shared his special ingredient of love. Whether he was throwing a party for his Portuguese cousins, a BBQ for friends, a family holiday dinner…the meals weren't just about eating, but about bringing people together and bonding. Gerald was a fun-loving man with immense warmth and kindness. His thoughtful nature and loving heart were qualities that left a lasting impression on all of us. He will be greatly missed.

Gerald leaves behind his loving wife, Lynn Dodd; his stepsons, Blaine Gordon and Todd Opray; his brothers: David (Bea) Morris, Phillip (Cleo) Morris; as well as his niece and nephews Shelby, Brandon (Jessica), and James (Jenna) Morris; two great-nephews, and many beloved cousins and friends. He was predeceased by his parents Joe and Helen Morris.

There will be a funeral mass at Holy Eucharist Church in Corralitos, on Friday, September 5, 2025 at 11:00 am. Burial with military honors to follow at Pajaro Valley Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Dominican Hospital Foundation's Cardiology Fund.

We wish to thank Dr. Neal Sawhney for his never-ending compassion, expertise, and empathy; also, Hospice of Santa Cruz, and last but not least, the invaluable kindness and priceless knowledge of Bea Morris, R.N.

Mehl's Colonial Chapel has been entrusted with the funeral arrangements.