Richard Shad Morris, Sr.

Richard “Shad” W. Morris, Sr., 95, of Denton, North Carolina, passed away peacefully on April 19, 2026. He was born on December 8, 1930.

Shad was a devoted husband, loving father, proud grandfather, and faithful friend. He married the love of his life, Sylvia Morris, on May 29, 1955, and together they shared more than 70 wonderful years of marriage built on love, devotion, and family.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Sylvia Morris; his children, Debra Crouch (Chuck), Kathy Baum (Mike), and Rick Morris; six grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; and three great-great-grandchildren, all of whom brought him immense joy.

Shad attended North Carolina State University and went on to build a strong career marked by dedication and hard work. He retired from Burlington Industries, where he served as a Department Head, and later retired from a second career with the Town of Denton as a water plant operator.

A man deeply committed to his community, Shad was instrumental in the organization, implementation, and building of the Denton Swim Club. He also gave generously of his time coaching women’s softball.

Shad lived life with enthusiasm and energy. He was an avid tennis player who enjoyed sailing, gardening, and spending treasured time with his grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren.

He proudly served his country in the United States Army during the Korean War as a paratrooper with the 187th Airborne Infantry Regiment, known as The Rakkasans.

Shad was a faithful member of Central United Methodist Church, where he found strength, fellowship, and community.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to Hospice of Davidson County, Robin Horne, his hospice nurse, and his caregiver, Jasmine Hash, whose compassionate care and support were a great comfort to Shad and a tremendous help to Sylvia during his illness.

Shad will be remembered for his love of family, service to others, strong work ethic, and joyful spirit. He leaves behind a legacy of kindness, dedication, and cherished memories that will live on in all who knew and loved him.

A celebration of life service will be held at 3:00 PM on Monday, April 27, at 3:00 PM at Central United Methodist Church with Rev. Peter McGuire officiating. Military honors will be rendered by the United States Army. Immediately following the service the family will receive friends in the Fellowship Hut.

Memorials can be made to Central United Methodist Church in Denton

Briggs Funeral Home is serving the Morris family.