Mr. Jimmie Lee Morris Sr.

Jimmie Lee Morris, Sr. was born October 17, 1949, in Mount Pleasant (Marshall County), Mississippi. He was the son of George W. Morris and Juanita B. Morris. Jimmie eventually relocated to Jackson, Tennessee, where he was educated in the public school system. He is a 1967 graduate of Merry High School. He went on to have a long and successful career as a mailroom supervisor at the Jackson Sun newspaper. Jimmie joined the Tabernacle of David House of Israel. Jackson, Tennessee, would also be the place where Jimmie found everlasting love. In Jackson, Jimmie met and fell in love with Phillis Lean Hegmon Morris. The two wed on July 6, 1971. The loving union of Jimmie and Phillis Lean produced three wonderful children: Kimberly Shannon Morris, Jimmie Lee Morris, Jr, and Clifford McClain Morris, Sr. In a continuation of the Morris legacy, there are currently five Morris grandchildren: Maya I. Morris, Myles A. Morris, Jordyn N. Morris, Clifford M. Morris, Jr., and Josiah E. Morris. Of course, the Morris gang would not be complete without Tyrone, a huge and intimidating four-legged member of the family. Tyrone remains a trusted and valued member of the family. Jimmie was an accomplished musician whose talents allowed him wide-spread recognition. An extraordinary bass guitar player, Jimmie was affiliated with numerous musical groups, including the Jacksonians, Vision, and the Tyler Goodson Band. Jimmie’s musical talents allowed Jimmie to travel nationally and internationally, showcasing his craft. Even when Jimmie was not performing on stage, he could be found creating tunes on the bass guitar in his home. He often made creating music a family affair, including having his wife Lean and his daughter Kim lend their powerful vocals to songs. The rise in technology meant that, in recent years, Jimmie could be found studying musical performances on the internet and using his computer to enhance his musical techniques. Jimmie’s house was more than a residence; it was a magical musical haven. An excellent cook, Jimmie loved to treat family and friends to his culinary creations. Every Christmas morning, Jimmie looked forward to hosting a breakfast for loved ones. This was one of the many gifts of love that he provided. However, no special events or occasions were required for Jimmie to provide love through cooking. If you stopped by his house, he was sure to invite you into the kitchen to indulge in one of his latest masterpieces. He was also known to make visits to the homes of others to drop off gifts of food. Jimmie’s life was characterized by his passion for his family, music—especially the bass guitar—and cooking. His infectious smile and witty conversations brought joy to those who had the honor and privilege of encountering him. There can never be a replacement for Jimmie Lee Morris, Sr. However, the impact of his greatness will live forever. Jimmie is preceded in death by his mother Juanita B. Morris, his father George W. Morris, his brother Raymond “Junebug” Harvey, Jr., and his songbird daughter Kimberly. Left to celebrate Jimmie’s life and continue his legacy are his loving wife Lean and his sons Jimmie Jr. (Rhonda) and Clifford (Inyang). Jimmie’s legacy also includes five amazing grandchildren Maya, Myles, Jordyn, Clifford Jr. (CJ), and Josiah. These five grandchildren helped to inspire Jimmie’s creativity. They also made sure he was never bored. Jimmie’s siblings provided him a lifetime of love, support, and compassion. His surviving siblings include Deborah A. High, Kathey P. Mercer (Michael), Marie Morris-Maxie (Jerome), Gary J. Morris, and Marcus Morris Floyd (Cassandra). Tyrone, the family’s fury best friend, is left to miss and mourn Jimmie as well. Tyrone was a constant companion of Jimmie and will continue to offer protection to the family just as Jimmie taught him. Numerous other family members, including nieces, nephews, cousins, in-laws, and dear friends honor Jimmie’s memory. The man who was affectionately called “Big Pop” “Big Jimmie” “Daddy Jimmie” “Uncle Jimmie” or simply “Jimmie” left lessons, legacies, and love that can never be replaced. Jimmie departed this earth unexpectedly on August 8, 2023. His loved ones will continue, for the rest of their lives, to mourn the loss of this great man. He will forever be missed. But the bassline in eternity will now be a little stronger.

Mr. Jimmie Lee Morris Sr.

October 17, 1949 - August 8, 2023