Ernest R. Morris, Jr.
11/01/1926 - 12/02/2018
Ernest Ray Morris, Jr. "Coach Morris", 92, went home to be with Jesus and his beloved wife, Naomi on December 2, 2018. Ernest is predeceased by wife Naomi Ruth Morris, daughter Kathleen L. McNichols, granddaughter Naomi Ruth McNichols, parents Ernest R. Morris, Sr. & Loretta C. Morris, sister Gloria Morris. Survived by his children Patty (Neal) Davis, Stacy (Ken) Kasten, Maria (Dan) Hartsough. Sister MaryEllen (Irwin) Hanson, Son-in-law Walter McNichols and grandchildren Patty (Mark) Guenther, Caleb McNichols (Shanah Alexander), Kevin McNichols, Samuel (Karen) McNichols, Joshua McNichols, Debbie (Justin) Bullington, Daniel Hartsough, David Hartsough, Rachel Davis, great grandchildren Carson, Mia & Hudson Bullington. The Hanson, Painter, Lubke nieces & nephews whom he loved dearly. Ernie was born in Savannah, Georgia November 1, 1926. He graduated from Benedictine Military High School, Savannah, Georgia, Class of 1945. During his high school years Ernie accomplished one of his proudest moments, attaining Eagle Scout status. He served with the United States Army right out of high school, serving in World War II . He received the Medal of Victory for his service. Ernie loved playing basketball and was playing at the Daytona Beach YMCA when he met Naomi, the love of his life. They were married October 18, 1952 at St. Paul's Church and raised four daughters who attended St. Paul's School and Father Lopez High School. Ernie, "Coach Morris" coached basketball for 38 years for the Catholic Basketball League coaching the Hustlers, Cougars and Cobras of St. Paul's School. He worked for Life of Georgia as Life Insurance Salesman for 33 years, winning several awards including the President's Club Award which won Ernie and Naomi a trip to Hawaii for the awards ceremony. Ernie was a man of God who always strived to serve God, family and country. He was adored and spoiled by his daughters who always saw him as the "knight in shining armor". He enjoyed Notre Dame football, the Celtics and the Green Bay Packers. He loved playing volleyball with the Lopez gang on the beach. He served St. Paul's as a Eucharistic Minister and mentored engaged couples through Focus. Ernie had the best sense of humor and enjoyed life to the fullest alongside his bride. His bright smile, loving heart and strong character will be missed. Ernie's funeral Mass will be held on Friday, December 14th at 12:00 noon at Basilica of St. Paul Catholic Church, 317 Mullally Street, Daytona Beach, FL. Viewing at Lohman Funeral Home, 1423 Bellevue Ave, Daytona Beach on Thursday, December 13 from 5:30 - 7:00 p.m. Burial, Daytona Memorial Park, Bellevue Ave, Daytona Beach. Flowers may be sent to Lohman Funeral Home, 1423 Bellevue Ave, Daytona Beach or donations may be made to the Boy Scouts of America in his memory. You may share condolences with the family here online.