In Memory
William Russell Morris, Sr.
Jul. 4, 1922 - Oct. 26, 1999
William R. Morris, Sr., 77, of 9621 Chesapeake Blvd., Norfolk, Va., passed from this life on Tuesday, Oct. 26, after a lengthy illness.
Devoted to a variety of causes in the field of housing, Mr. Morris served many communities across the United States, most notably in the capacity of national director of housing for the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) where he served from 1969 to 1977. In his role as director, Mr. Morris was instrumental in the construction and preservation of low and middle income housing in virtually every state in the continental United States. His dedication and commitment were acknowledged by community and congressional leaders alike. His concern and efforts in the field of equal housing continued throughout his life.
He later served with the Federal National Mortgage Association as Special Advisor to the President on Urban Affairs and as director of the National Association of Real Estate Brokers.
Prior to taking the position with the NAACP in 1969, Mr. Morris owned and operated the William R. Morris Real Estate Agency in South Bend, Ind. He was the first African-American real estate broker in the history of Indiana, and worked tirelessly to secure equal housing rights for all people. During his many years in South Bend, Mr. Morris served his community as president of the South Bend NAACP, founder and director of the South Bend Small Business Center, and director of the Center for Fair Housing. The extent and value of his work contributed to the home ownership of many African-American families in St. Joseph County.
A 1939 graduate of South Bend Central High School, Mr. Morris served his country in World War II in the Army Air Corps where he was a member of the fabled Tuskegee Airmen, the first corps of African-American combat pilots. He retired from the United States Air Force Reserve in 1972, having attained the rank of major.
In 1946, Mr. Morris was joined in holy matrimony to Ruth L. Morris (nee Blanton), deceased, and the couple was married for 50 years. One son was born of the union, attorney William R. Morris, Jr., of Chapel Hill, N.C. Mr. Morris is survived by his son, and beloved sister, Gladys E. Shell of Cleveland, Ohio.
Mr. Morris was a dedicated husband, father and brother. His enthusiasm and energy for living will be missed by all who knew and loved him.
07/04/2022 DEC
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