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ROBERT MORRIS Obituary


MORRIS ROBERT E. MORRIS, JR. Of McLean, Virginia, passed away December 29, 2013. Rob was born on March 27, 1960, and graduated from Brookstone High School in Columbus, Georgia. He went on to graduate from Auburn University with a Professional Degree in Architecture in 1984. While in high school, Morris' family moved to a home built in the historic district of Columbus, Georgia. Morris was so influenced by the house, that he often spoke of it as "the house that built him". After graduating from Auburn, Rob moved to Washington, DC, where within a few years, he founded Morris-Day Architects and Builders. Morris became a renowned builder in Northern Virginia, Washington, DC and Maryland, specializing in estate homes and major renovations to older homes. After 25 years of practice, Morris' designs have won more than a dozen prestigious awards for design excellence including the NARI Metro DC Chapter Merit Award, "Contractor of the Year". Rob and his Morris-Day projects were featured in over twenty-five national magazines. Rob turned houses into homes and built them to bring families and friends closer; they were living works of art. Through his boundless creativity, dedication and enthusiasm for the ideals that he held dear, he left his community and this world a better place than when he entered it. Generous, smart and with a relentless sense of humor and charm, Rob will be deeply missed. He was preceded in death by his father, Robert Earl Morris, Senior. He is survived by his mother, Billye Morris; brothers, John Michael Morris (Lisa), Keith Bryant Morris (Jennifer) and Charles Dana Morris (Lyn); nieces and nephews. A memorial service will be held at The Lutheran Church of the Redeemer, 1545 Chain Bridge Road, McLean, Virginia on Saturday, February 8, 2014 at 2 p.m. A memorial service will be held at The Lutheran Church of the Redeemer, 1545 Chain Bridge Road, McLean, Virginia on Saturday, February 8, 2014 at 2 p.m.

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Published by The Washington Post on Jan. 12, 2014.

Memories and Condolences
for ROBERT MORRIS

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Sujata Kibe

December 25, 2014

While we met Rob only once, he impressed us with his innovative styled housing, and our neighborhood in Franklin Park is much richer for it. We are now at a stage where we wanted to build our home and were wondering why we did not see Morris Day homes during the past year. We are very sorry to hear about his demise, and agree that his memory will be kept alive by the distinctive homes he has built in many neighborhoods around DC. We truly lost an opportunity to work with a very talented architect and builder.

Kevin Houghton

December 4, 2014

Our deepest sympathy to the Morris family.We just learned of this today.We were neighbors and friends with Rob when we lived at 19 and North Taylor St.So many great times and laughs.He lived a life filled with grace and shared it with many people.He was such a southern gentleman.We are deepley saddened by this news.He will always be in our hearts.

Steven Farros

November 12, 2014

I sadly just learned on Rob's passing today. I'm at a complete loss for words. My condolences to his family and the many people that loved him. Thanks for believing in me Rob!

James Dyott

February 8, 2014

I was employed by Rob for almost 2 years initially as Project Manager and then Rob promoted me to Senior Project Manager. He has taught me a lot about architecture details of the Morris-Day era. I used to laugh when Rob would come on the job with a sharpie and draw on the walls as to how he wanted a detail to look. I used to think he was crazy for just drawing on the walls, kind of shooting from the hip and have his design come together flawlessly and gorgeous. I agree he was pure genius. What made me grow to love Rob and Morris-Day was Rob himself and his outstanding architects, project managers and design team. What I am going to miss the most are the staff meetings with the (SQUIRREL). Your family is in my prayers.

Pamela Hannam

February 7, 2014

Across the years, the miles, through living rooms, kitchens, churches, grocery stores, ballrooms -- the grand and the mundane, the glitter and the gloom, Rob was a presence in my life that won't soon fade. I believe there are children, people, alive today because of Rob. Among his many sincere passions was a passion for justice, for life. His committed work with PFLAG saved lives. I'm proud to have shared some of that work with him and to have counted him among my friends --- to have laughed and cried with him. I miss him, and I miss his joy, as I know that you do, too. He left a living legacy in the lives that he saved -- the HOMES that he made -- the memories that he left us. My most sincere condolences to his family, whom he loved dearly.

Irene Adkins

February 1, 2014

I am so sorry for your loss, Rob was a good man, old soul, passionate and kind. His work was like no other. I worked for him for a little while and missed him right away after I left...I will miss him profoundly now. Mimi Renie loves you.

A. Moore

January 16, 2014

I'm reminded of Rob every day because I live in the Franklin Park home he helped transform over 20 years ago. We needed a "finish carpenter" to add character to the interior of a house we were building. We found Rob (and Steve). They worked wonders. No one has ever asked why we used two architects, because there is no evidence of two. The work was masterful and seamless, fully integrated into the complicated canvas we presented to them. My wife and building partner spent her last years in our special home. Now, new family members are enjoying his legacy. I am forever grateful for Rob's extraordinary gifts.

Sandi Chesrown

January 15, 2014

Although I did not know Rob, those of us who live in Waverly Hills often passed his office and his homes - they graced our neighborhood and will live on as a testament to his commitment to good architecture. We are very grateful.

Kit Goldfarb

January 13, 2014

We are in the midst of building the perfect home that Rob designed for us. As many have said, he had a creative genius that enabled him to listen to what we said about the way we live at home and create a house that exceeds anything we ever imagined. Along the way he also became a treasured friend. His wit and kindness could brighten any moment. I miss him terribly and am so grateful to have known him and to have our house to remember him by. Our thoughts go out to his family for their loss and ours.

Bronwen Kaye

January 12, 2014

I was both shocked and deeply saddened to learn today of Rob's death. He built our lovely home for us 12 years ago and I have had the opportunity in the intervening time to keep in touch. Rob and I seemed to have in sync schedules when it came to shopping at the local Balducci's. . His warmth and sense of humor will be greatly missed and I know he will be constantly in my thoughts as there is no room in my home that I can walk into without some memory being stirred.

January 11, 2014

We just heard about Rob's passing. The world has lost a shining star. He was brilliant, caring and fun. During our search to build the perfect home, he showed us many completed homes and then showed us his own because it had some features we were considering. He was just that kind of person. Open and accessible. May you take some comfort in knowing that Rob was cherished by so many people.

January 10, 2014

Dear Billie,
I have been so sad over your loss. I did not even hear about Lamar until recently. Stephanie is so good to try to keep me in the loop about Charles family, but their has been so much that has happened lately. We were out of town when Jo Vaughn died, and that was so sad.
Please know that we have had you and your family in our thoughts and prayers. I want to do something, as soon as I hear back from Stephanie with your contact info. Love, Peggy and Michael Balliet

Kady Ashley

January 9, 2014

My family and I were so sad to hear of Rob's passing. We think of him often as we enjoy the beautiful home he built for us, and feel lucky to be able to live in his artistic vision. What a loss to his family and to our community, where his work stood out as exceptional and truly visionary. We will treasure the space he created for us, and honor him by using it for what he designed for - bringing family and friends together.

January 9, 2014

I just found out about Rob today. I was so shocked to hear this tragic news. My heart goes out to his friends and family. I am so sorry.

Ann Galloway

January 8, 2014

My thoughts and prayers for Rob's family. He will truly be missed. He had more talent than I could imagine. Rest in peace my, friend.

Carolyn Hart

January 8, 2014

Heartfelt condolences to Rob's family, friends, and colleagues. He added so much to so many lives, and to the built environment and other aspects of our community! Peace to his lovely soul and to those who mourn him. Alden, Sandy, Gordon and I grieve with you.

Chip Benjamin

January 8, 2014

So many lives he touched and blessings he left along the way. Rob gave so much and left a profound mark on those he knew. Holding the Morris family and Morris-Day Team up in prayer during this difficult time. Much Love.

Sally Groom

January 8, 2014

One of my favorite things to do is drive around Arlington to look at houses like my realtor father used to do,especially the Morris-Day houses in particular. They are beautiful works of architecture and this is what Robert has left for us to enjoy. So sorry to hear the sad news and for the family's loss. He will be missed greatly.

Pam Collins

January 7, 2014

My condolences to the family. Rob was a delight to know and so gifted and caring. I miss him and will hold his memory close. May memories comfort you,

Jill Raff

January 6, 2014

Robby will always remain a part of my childhood memories: seeing and hearing his great sense of humor, laughing, hanging out with Billy. I have a very definite memory of your beautiful home and fireplace w/painting above it.

I am just so, so sad at such a loss. I wish you all strength and peace.

Clare Lindsay

January 6, 2014

Rob, you are so missed by so many! Our hearts are hurting. We bought our very first home from Rob and still feel his warm spirit and humor in its walls. Rob was a creative genius and a gregarious, funny and generous person whose many clients often became his friends. We can't believe you are gone.

Todd Rongstad

January 6, 2014

Very sad to hear about Rob's passing. A true loss to all.

Birthday brunch

Joseph Crouch

January 6, 2014

Rob,

We'll always have Capri. Thanks for the laughs, the talks, the tears and most importantly, the connection. You're often on my mind, but always in my heart. "ILY2"

Turtle

Missy Fuller

January 5, 2014

A Beautiful Soul and Spirit !!!
As well as a beautiful Family !
Love,
Missy Freed Fuller

Marilyn Stinchcome-Thompson

January 5, 2014

Dear Billy & Mo,

I was sooo sorry to hear of the loss of your sweet son. I know the pain you have. My brother was killed in an auto accident when he was 22 years old. Please know you are in my prayers and though's.

Glenda (Gaynor) Merrill

January 5, 2014

So sorry for your lose. Will keep you and family in my prayers--glenda

maureen scholz

January 5, 2014

The world lost a great and talented man. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family and friends.

Connie Hyde

January 5, 2014

I heard about Rob's passing last night. I am deeply saddened by the news. I remember the first conversation I had with Rob, it was over twenty years ago. I remember the last time I saw him a few weeks ago - we hugged - he smiled his wonderful smile. That is the kind of guy Rob was - he made an impression on people. Rob was one of the most talented people I have ever known, I wouldn't use the word often to describe someone but he truly was brilliant. His houses, his parties, his friendship was always given the best of detail, we have all lost a tremendous talent and friend.

Daniel & Rara

January 5, 2014

Rob,
We will miss the great discussions and insight that you gave us on how to transform our ideas into a practical and beautiful reality. As we look around our home we will remember the many first sketches you did right before our eyes. You will be missed by family, friends and associates.

January 4, 2014

Billie dear and family,
May God hold you when you cry!
In His name,
Sunny

January 4, 2014

Billie, You and yours will be in my thoughts and prayers. You can't seem to catch a break.
Love ya, Marilyn Brown Allen

Maria Ross

January 4, 2014

Rob, I will dearly miss you. You have gone way too soon but you are not forgotten! We will meet again. Until then, rest in peace my friend!

Georgia & Stratis Voutsas

January 4, 2014

Rob's mastery knew the essence of beauty in form and structure and he built many beautiful spaces for which we will remember him lovingly and with deep admiration. His legacy will inspire those who follow, he will not be forgotten. Our sincerest condolences to his family and friends. We will miss him very much.

Frankie Freed

January 4, 2014

Rob was a shining star who will surely be missed. So glad Bit, Rose and I got to see him this past year when he visited Columbus. He had that magic personality as I remember from his childhood.
My deepest sympathy and love to all the family.

Mike Terpak

January 4, 2014

I am so very sorry for your loss. Rob was a force of nature with a a unique creative sense. His homes were truly works of art.

Carmella Calma

January 4, 2014

I'm not sure if this is the Robbie who lived in Birmingham in the 60s. His Mom's name is Billie and his Dad's nickname is Mo. We lost contact over the years, but I often thought about my great neighbors who lived two doors down. I read in the obituary that Robert Sr. preceded Rob in death. Billie, I am sorry for the loss of your husband and son. May God give you confort and help during this difficult time.

Steven Crawford

January 4, 2014

Rob hired me 10 years ago as one of the architects at Morris-Day. Before joining the firm, I had admired his work for years and was grateful to have the opportunity to design houses with him and Dwight McNeil during my time there. Rob treated me like family, especially during the time when my wife and I lived in his basement guest suite while our house was under construction. He was a passionate man and loved to spend time with his friends and family, throwing more than the occasional party. I had not seen Rob for several years, so he may have thought that I didn't appreciate what he did for me or that I forgot him, but I never did.

Bill Freeman

January 4, 2014

I too enjoyed Rob's wonderful work around Arlington. This is a tragedy. My he rest in the loving embrace of the eternal light.

Jim Baker

January 4, 2014

Rob our friendship spanned 15 years and more recently our daily interactions at the office regardless of good or bad, taught me dreams do come true. Houses became homes, clients became friends and friends became confidants who argued the values of left brain and right brain thinking. You will truly be missed.

Gloria Freund

January 3, 2014

My profound heartfelt sympathies to Billie and the family. Rob was my dear friend for more than 25 years - unerringly kind, tender, and generous. He brought sparkle and color to all that he did - not only through his genius for design but also through his passion and his wry sense of humor. The world is less for his loss. He will be missed terribly.

January 3, 2014

We enjoyed working with Rob and his talented staff at Morris-Day a dozen years ago to upgrade our 1930's arts and crafts style home in Arlington,VA. Loved his style! He made our home a perfect family retreat. So sorry to hear of his passing. (Margaret Frondorf)

January 3, 2014

I didn't know Rob personally, but I live in Arlington, VA where many of his handiwork can be seen and admired. I loved that his new homes and renovations improved the neighborhood, a great antidote against boring colonials and McMansions. He will be missed by those who lived in the neighborhoods he enhanced. My condolences to his family.

Bill and Michelle Brydges

January 3, 2014

We admired Rob's work around Arlington for many years, and more recently were lucky enough to work with him and his team to remake our 1930s home. It was a once in a lifetime experience-Rob amazed us time and again with his skill and consideration, humor and howdies. Living in our preserved old+new home is a joy and a privilege. We miss him dearly and our thoughts are with his family, friends and colleagues at this very difficult time.

summer 2013

stephen galloway

January 3, 2014

I met Rob in McLean Va.where we worked on his second and third projects and continued a long and fruitful relationship. always a joy to work with,always looking to make it better and peaceful for the eye and mind. There will never be a moment that he is not in my thoughts.

Paula and Jim Brassfield

January 3, 2014

We will be eternally grateful to Rob for providing a wonderful opportunity for our son, Tim Brassfield, to learn good design and construction for the past 6 years. Rob was the best mentor one could have and was a boss who instilled in Tim a demand for excellence and attention to detail...a rarity in today's world! In addition to his artistic talent, Rob was caring and compassionate towards Tim. What an inspiration for all of us! He will be greatly missed.
Paula and Jim Brassfield, Great Falls, Virginia

Stan Whatley

January 2, 2014

Rob and I met in the summer of 1980, at Auburn University, during the Summer Option program, a demanding, concentrated architecture “boot camp,” where students attempt to complete three quarters of architecture design classes in a single quarter—a barely controlled madness designed to weed out weak students. I was frantic every day—totally overwhelmed by work deadlines and my own ignorance--but Rob seemed to take in stride the massive amount of work, the confusion and lack of sleep that came with the program. It actually amused him! Lots of situations are nuts—that's a given; get on with things—he seemed to know and demonstrate in the summer of 1980. Rob had a way through, I realized. So without knowing it, without aiming to, Rob became a role model for me to survive the architecture program. After college we saw each other only a few times but I often recalled Rob's vision and sense of humor. I am very grateful to have known Rob, to have learned from Rob, and treasure the group of friends that his energy and spirit brought my way.

January 1, 2014

I am still in disbelief as old memories continue to come to mind. My heart
and prayers go out to Billie and all the family members.
Bob Martini
Alexandria, Va.

george hiller

January 1, 2014

My thoughts and prayers are with the Morris family. This world has lost a very special soul. Robbie and I met in high school and have remained friends since. His wit, intelligence, kindness, and compassion will be missed. Godspeed, Robbie.

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