George Lee Morris Sr.'s Obituary
Celebrating the Life of Dr. George Lee Morris, Sr.
January 12, 1950 – April 30, 2025
Oakland, California
“I was glad when they said, ‘Let us go into the house of the Lord.” — Psalm 122:1
With hearts full of love and gratitude, we celebrate the extraordinary life of Dr. George Lee Morris, Sr., who entered eternal rest on April 30, 2025, at the age of 75. A man of profound faith, intellect, and joy, Dr. Morris lived his life as a devoted husband and father, artist, servant, scholar, and spiritual leader.
Born and raised in Houston, Texas, George’s life was marked by brilliance, resilience, and an unwavering devotion to God and community. From a young age, he was active in both his school and church, laying a strong foundation for the life of service and leadership he would later embrace. He accepted Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior early in life and became a dedicated member of Park Hill Church of God in Christ and Buck Street Church of God in Christ, where he joyfully sang in the choirs and played piano for the Sunday School Department throughout his youth and early adulthood.
He honorably served eighteen years in the United States Army as a Noncommissioned Officer, demonstrating leadership and dedication early in life. A passionate lifelong learner, he earned more than six doctorate degrees, a testament to his insatiable intellectual curiosity and his deep commitment to empowering others. Professionally, George was gifted and excelled as a Nuclear Medicine Technologist and Instructor, and he was also published in an academic journal, contributing valuable insights to his field. In the realm of theological education, he was a respected faculty member at Pneuma Theological Seminary and Dean of Theocracy School of Divinity, the Bay area extension, where he shaped minds, nurtured faith, and inspired generations of future leaders. His legacy of excellence endures in the countless lives he taught, mentored, and uplifted.
A gifted musician, George played the piano and bass and lent his powerful voice to several gospel choirs. He was a former bodybuilder, martial artist, and even a Mason, embracing excellence and discipline in all his pursuits. Whether in ministry, music, medicine, or martial arts, George's presence was felt and cherished.
George faithfully led and ministered throughout his life. He pastored a nondenominational church in San Francisco and later served as Interim Pastor of Bethlehem Missionary Baptist Church in Richmond. He also contributed to the broader faith community as Secretary of the Board for the Northern California Baptist Training Union, offering both leadership and spiritual guidance.
He was ordained as an Elder at Acts Church of God in Christ, where he ministered with devotion through the Baptism Team, Foundation Classes, Men’s Choir, and the Sick and Shut-in Ministry—always pointing others toward Christ with compassion and conviction.
In his later years, Dr. Morris became a beloved member of Shiloh Church in Oakland, where he continued to serve with enthusiasm and purpose. He was active in the Baptism Team, Men’s Ministry, Adult Choir, and Prayer Team, remaining steadfast in his faith and commitment to the body of Christ.
He lived his favorite saying with humility and grace:
"The only time a person should look down on another person is when they are helping that person up." (Jesse Jackson).
George embraced life with enthusiasm and joy. He found delight in traveling the world, dragon boat racing, weightlifting, bowling, and billiards, and was known for his passion as an antique car enthusiast. A true lover of music, he appreciated both gospel and jazz. Also, he had a deep affection for the outdoors which reflected his appreciation for beauty and stillness. Whether in conversation or through simple acts of kindness, George never missed an opportunity to uplift those around him with his warmth, wisdom, and unwavering encouragement.
He is lovingly survived by his devoted wife, Dr. Vernita Marsh Morris; children, Edward Tamonte(wife, Karen Tamonte) and George Morris Jr.(wife, Kristina Morris); grandchildren, Maleeya Tamonte, Kyle Tamonte, Averie Morris, and Donovan Morris; great-grandchild: Kian Tamonte; and siblings, Gloria Freeman(widowed), Adolph Morris (wife, Janell Morris), Shelton Morris, Dr. Carolyn Benton, and Dr. Charlie Lacy, the mother of his children, Juanita Morris, and several nieces, nephews, friends, and neighbors.
He was preceded in death by his beloved mother and father, Sophia and J.D. Lacy, and his brother, Lewis Rabb.
Service Details
A Joyful Celebration of Life will be held to honor Dr. Morris at:
Chapel of the Chimes and Shiloh Church, Oakland, CA
Chapel of the Chimes
- Viewing - 5/21/25 at 5:30 PM to 7:00 PM
(Guests are encouraged to attire in bright colors reflecting George’s class and style)
Shiloh Church, 3295 School St., Oakland, CA
- Family Hour & Final Viewing – 5/22/25 at 10:45 to 11:30 AM
- Celebration of George’s Life - 5/22/25 at 11:30 – 1:00 PM
Repast immediately following the Celebration Service
The burial will take place on May 26, 2025, and will be a private ceremony reserved for family and close friends. For additional details, please contact the family directly.
What’s your fondest memory of George?
What’s a lesson you learned from George?
Share a story where George's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with George you’ll never forget.
How did George make you smile?