Ralph Lamar Morris

Ralph Lamar “Mo” Morris, 80, of Pilot Mountain, passed away at his home on Tuesday, March 10, 2026. Born in Tate County, Mississippi on January 23, 1946, he was the son of the late John Wallace Morris and Florence Boling Morris. Mo proudly served his country in the United States Marine Corps during the Vietnam War, attaining the rank of Sergeant. In 1970 he joined the North Carolina Highway Patrol, beginning his career in Orange County before transferring to Surry County, where he served until his retirement in 1994.

While still with the Highway Patrol, Mo started a wallpaper business and took great pleasure in working with customers he came to consider friends. As tastes in home décor evolved, he retired from “hanging paper,” yet he remained restless. At the encouragement of his daughter-in-law, he became a substitute school bus driver for Westfield Elementary and soon transitioned to a full-time role. He cherished his time with the children and teachers there and had the special joy of driving the school bus for two of his own grandchildren.

After retiring from the Highway Patrol, Mo and his wife Faye became active in their church and were members of Simmons Grove Baptist Church. On warm evenings, he, Faye, and their beloved dog Abby could often be seen sitting on the porch, watching the passing traffic and waving to neighbors. He found deep contentment surf fishing at the coast. Mo will be remembered for his love of family, strength of character, and steadfast commitment to his state and country.

He was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers, Wallace Morris and Wayne Morris; a sister, Velma Traywick; and his faithful companion, Andy.

Mo is survived by his loving and devoted wife of 32 years, Faye Dean Joyce Morris; his special baby, Abby; two sons, Scott Morris (Kim) of Westfield and Kevin Morris (Lee) of Walnut Cove; two daughters, Melissa Riddle of Pilot Mountain and Melinda Riddle (Penny) of Pilot Mountain; and six grandchildren, Evan Morris (Grace), J.C. Morris, Clark Morris, Ellie Morris, Lilly Morris, and Adyn Hall. He is also survived by three sisters, Sylvia Norris, Frances Parker, and Betty Marsh (Ronnie); three brothers, J.L. Morris (Pearl), Doug Morris (Kay), and Randy Morris (Donna); and many nieces, nephews, and extended family members.