In Memory of Thomas J. Morris

Obituary

Thomas Joseph Morris, 79, died on July 28, 2026, at Upstate Medical Center.

Born on January 26, 1947, in Utica, New York, Tom was the son of Milton Davis Morris and Agnes Evans Morris. He graduated from New Hartford High School and Erie Technical Institute. Tom served as President of Morris Optical before becoming Vice President and Plant Manager of Harding Manufacturing. 

Tom dedicated much of his life to serving his community. He was an Advanced EMT with Prospect Volunteer Ambulance for many years, served as both a member and President of the Remsen Central School Board of Education, was a board member of Zion Child Care Center, a member of Grace Episcopal Church, and a longtime lifeguard and coordinator of the Town of Trenton Early Morning Swim Program.

An avid gardener and farmer, Tom was an animal whisperer. He raised beef cattle for many years and found great joy in all kinds of outdoor activities. He was a fun- loving, adventurous, humble, kind, generous, and nonjudgmental person with a legendary sense of humor. He was a prankster at heart, especially with his grandsons. Tom was a “true Mr. Fixit" who prided himself on his ability to come up with solutions to any problem, some calling him “the total package”. He was blessed with special bonds with many nieces, nephews, and friends, and a remarkable gift for connecting with people of all ages and from every walk of life.

Tom is survived by his wife of 55 years, Jean Jones Morris; his son, Adam Morris and his wife, Katie; his daughter, Emily and her husband, Justin Martin; and his cherished grandsons, Declan and Owen Morris.

He is also survived by his brother, Doug Morris and his wife, Sue; his sister-in-law, Barbara Morris; his godchildren, Anne Gelaude, Matt Romanych, Meryl Pritchard, and Zachary Kidwell; as well as special nieces, nephews, cousins, and their families.

Tom was predeceased by his parents, Milton and Agnes Morris; his brother, Peter D. Morris; his parents-in-law, Hugh R. and Jean McMillen Jones; his brother and sister-in-law, Hugh and Sara Jones; and his brother-in-law, Tom McHugh.

A Celebration of Life will be held on August 29, 2026, at 12:00 PM at Grace Episcopal Church, 6 Elizabeth St, Utica, NY.

In accordance with his wishes, Tom’s body was donated to Upstate Medical Center.

Arrangements are entrusted to Friedel, Williams & Edmunds Funeral Home, 13 Oxford Rd., New Hartford, NY.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the charity of one' s choice.

For online expressions of sympathy go to fwefh.com.