Athens - Graveside services for Gary Wayne Morris Sr., 75, a longtime resident of Athens, Texas, will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, August 15, 2026, at Athens Cemetery under the direction of Hannigan Smith Funeral Home.

Gary passed away on August 10, 2026, in Tyler.

Gary Wayne Morris Sr. was born on October 3, 1950, in San Angelo, Texas, to Elden Lee Morris Jr. and Vera (Willingham) Morris. A true Texas cowboy at heart, Gary spent his life doing what he loved most—working hard, raising cattle, and enjoying the great outdoors. He owned and operated Gary's Paint and Body for more than 30 years, earning the respect of his community through his craftsmanship, honesty, and strong work ethic. Whether he was tending his cattle, riding motorcycles, or working with his hands, Gary found joy in a life built on grit and determination.

The outdoors was where Gary felt most at home. An avid hunter, he especially looked forward to bird hunting season and treasured countless days spent pursuing ducks and quail. Those hunting trips, filled with stories, laughter, and lifelong friendships, became some of his favorite memories. He also had a passion for motorcycles and enjoyed building custom bikes, always appreciating the satisfaction of creating something with his own hands.

More than any of his hobbies or accomplishments, Gary's greatest pride was his family. He was a devoted father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and great-great-grandfather who cherished every opportunity to spend time with those he loved. Affectionately known as "Popa," he leaves behind a legacy of strength, hard work, and unwavering love that will continue to live on through his family.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Elden Lee Morris Jr. and Vera (Willingham) Morris; his beloved wife, Linda Sue (Caviness) Morris; his brother, Robby Dean Morris; his sister, Vickie Sue "Sussie" Borchardt; his granddaughter, Averree Forrester; and his sons-in-law, Brad Miller and Billy Morehead.

Gary is survived by his son, Gary Wayne Morris Jr.; his stepdaughters, Paula Forrester of Murchison, Kim Miller of Norman, Oklahoma, and Rita Morehead of Corsicana; his grandchildren, Morgan Spencer Morris and wife Amy Gayton, Kaitlyn Nichole Morris, Nathaniel Dean Rodriguez Morris, Chance Moody, Tanner Forrester and wife Ashton, Logan Miller, Cody Miller and wife Hannah, Taylor Morehead and wife Courtney, and Garrett Morehead and wife Katelyn; his great-grandchildren, Hazel Morris, Kenzie Morris, Lane Moody and wife Julissa, Karlee Moody, Harper Forrester, Wilder Forrester, Isabella Johnson, Stella Johnson, Colt Johnson, Kinsley Miller, Addie Miller, Brynlee Miller, Presley Miller, Reid Morehead, Ellis Morehead, Rori Morehead, and Treyson Morehead; and his great-great-grandson, Jorge Moody.

Serving as pallbearers will be Chance Moody, Tanner Forrester, Logan Miller, Cody Miller, Kenny Morris, and Lane Moody. Honorary pallbearers will be Gary Dixon, Grant Dixon, Dick Green, Kim Rose, Harvey Lynn Walker, Timmy Barrows, and Tommy Barrows.

Funeral arrangements were entrusted to the Hannigan Smith Funeral Home family.