Wayne Thomas Morris

Wayne Thomas Morris was born on November 5, 1936, in Nashville, North Carolina, to Jefferson Lee Morris and Arlene Vick Overby Morris. He passed away peacefully, in the morning Sunday August 17th 2025, leaving behind a legacy of faith, service, and love that touched all who knew him.

Wayne graduated from Red Oak High School in Rocky Mount, North Carolina, where he was voted both “Wittiest” and “Friendliest” by his classmates—traits he carried with him throughout his life. He later attended Brigham Young University, where his love of learning only deepened.

On February 22, 1957, Wayne married his sweetheart, Mary Frances Winstead. They shared a long and happy life together until her passing in 2018. Wayne was also preceded in death by his brother Jeff Timothy Morris. He is survived by his children: Michael W. Morris (of Dortches, N.C.), Robbin F. Morris, Jefferson Morris, Julie Morris Strosser, Jonathan H. Morris, and Mindy J. Hemmert; as well as many grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He is also remembered by his brothers Ronald Lee Morris and David R. Morris, and his sister Kathie Morris O’Neil.

Wayne dedicated his career to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, retiring as a regional manager for the Church’s Family History Department. His work took him across the country, where he built lasting relationships and helped preserve the histories of countless families. He worked extensively with both state and national archives, acquiring records for the purpose of preserving them. Wayne was a long-time member of the Utah Genealogical Association and the Genealogical Society of Utah, and after retiring, he served a Family and Church History mission, during which he contributed his expertise to the Joseph Smith Papers Project. His devotion to genealogy and history enriched both his professional work and his personal life.

Wayne’s life was one of quiet strength, gentle humor, and unwavering faith. To his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, he was more than a father and grandfather—he was a steady hand, a patient teacher, and a friend who never failed to make them smile. His wit was unforgettable, with jokes so bad they left you in uncomfortable silence—until the laughter finally came. Though he is gone from our sight, his faith, kindness, and devotion will continue to shape our lives. His memory will live on in his family, in the generations blessed by his love, and in the countless families touched by his lifelong work of preserving their histories.

Services will be held at the Eagle Shores LDS Stake Center, 549 South 1525 West, Farmington, UT 84025, on Thursday, August 28, 2025. A viewing will begin at 10:00 a.m., followed by services at 11:00 a.m. Graveside dedication will take place at 2:00 p.m. at Larkin Sunset Gardens, 1950 East 10600 South, Sandy, UT.