James Gee Morris

James Gee (Coach) Morris began this race called life on October 3, 1936, and crossed the finish line into the arms of his Lord on July 25, 2023, with his beloved family members physically by his side, and a myriad of friends and fans cheering him towards his goal.

His number one fan, Beverly Ann Morris, no doubt ran to him with open arms to show him their new home. They were married on June 1, 1957. Their time together on earth was 62 years, two months, and 24 days, as James proudly recited at every opportunity.

After graduating from Brownfield High School, James earned All-American honors running track for Cisco Junior College followed by two years running for Texas Tech University. He then moved back to Brownfield to raise his family and begin his coaching career.

Coach Morris had a deep love for track and field. He coached many successful junior high and high school athletes in Brownfield ISD. He then took on an assistant coaching at Texas Tech. An opportunity came along to be head track coach at South Plains College. He has said numerous times he has never “worked” a day in his life, so enjoyable was his coaching career! He made lifelong, meaningful connections with his student athletes and fellow coaches throughout his entire career. Some of his numerous accolades include leading SPC to its first national victory with Indoor Track and Field and three national Cross Country victories. He helped train 53 national champions and 13 future Olympians. He was also named NJCAA National Cross Country Coach of the Year 4 times and was inducted into the Track & Field Cross Country Hall of Fame.

James Morris was preceded in death by his parents and his beloved wife, Beverly.

He leaves behind to continue the race his adoring family: Dr. Mark Morris and his wife LeAnn, of Tyler, his daughter Mitzi Cross and her husband James, of Katy, his precious grandchildren Meagan, Tyler, Ashton, Spencer, Anna, Alex, Sarah, and Laura along with fifteen great grandchildren. He is also survived by his sister Pam Hulse and her husband Mark and numerous nieces and nephews. His cherished caregiver, Fideline Mukarubuga, is considered part of the family, as well as numerous athletes and students throughout his career.

A private family burial service will take place Saturday morning, July 29, 2023, followed by a memorial service at Brownfield Church of Christ at 1:00 PM under the direction of Brownfield Funeral Home. Visitation will follow.

Pallbearers are Tyler Morris, Spencer Braly, Alex Braly, Patrick Lissner, Jordan Wince, Manny Canales, Edward Calles, Maximus Lissner, Henry Canales.

Memorial gifts can be made to the Children’s Home of Lubbock, 4404 Idalou Road, Lubbock, Texas 79403.