Jim was born on Dec. 20, 1936 in Greenville, Texas to Johnie Martin Morris and Aubie Irene Beene Morris. He married Ruby Jean Hudson on Jan. 29, 1960 in Greenville, Texas, where they made their home and raised their family. He dedicated years of his life to serving the Hunt County Community, along with his wife, Jean, who was a longtime music teacher. Jim worked as a building contractor in Greenville, he built a multitude of homes, shopping centers, offices and commercial buildings. He was fortunate to stay friends through the years with all of his clients he served. He enjoyed serving on the Greenville Chamber of Commerce Board, Entertainment Series Board, President of Greenville Independent School District School Board and as mayor of Greenville.
In his free time, Jim was an avid tennis player, gardener and handyman. He was a faithful member of the Church of Christ.
Jim is survived by his wife, Jean Morris of Beaumont; son, Brad Morris and wife, Cyndy of Austin; daughters, Jill Morris Jones of Irvine, California and Kathleen Morris Wilkinson and husband, Jeff of Beaumont; six grandchildren, Macy Morris Jacobs, Michael Morris, Mallory Morris Lewis, Jack Wilkinson, Ruby Wilkinson, and Ellison Jones; three great-grandchildren, Jackson, Reese and Parker Jacobs; and another great-grandchild on the way.
He was preceded in death by his parents; and sister, Jeanelle Webb.
Jim's family would like to give special thanks to Gentiva Hospice, Gilbert's Assisted Living, Coastal Caregivers, Adkisson's Florist & Coker-Mathews Funeral Home Staff.
Condolences(8)
Latevi Lawson hellou
Fayetteville, AR Friday, November 14, 2025 My condolences, may God help you overcome this sad moment...Carolyn Norman
Reno, NV Friday, November 14, 2025 Jean,We are saddened by your loss and hold you in our hearts.
Much love to you and your family
Nancy DeBerry Moore
Lufkin, TX Friday, November 14, 2025 Dear Jean,I was so sad to hear of the passing of your husband. I lost my husband, Thomas in 2022. I am so glad that we got to see you at that one Greenville reunion. Thomas loved your funny skit, and we often laughed about it. I didn’t realize you had moved to Beaumont. If you ever get to Lufkin, I would love for you to come by for a visit. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Brenda Hudson
Carrollton, TX Thursday, November 13, 2025 So sorry for your loss and know he will be greatly missed by your family.One of his most proud accomplishments was the beautiful yard he created.
Know it brought him a sense of peace and happiness plus the pleasure of sharing it with friends and family.
Peggy Holly
Greenville, TX Thursday, November 13, 2025 Jean, I love you and Jim so much and my prayers will be constantly with you as you adjust to this difficult journey. My mom and dad loved the two of you when they lived here in the 80s and I was so glad to reconnect when I moved here in 2005. 💕💕 May God bless you with many comforting memories.Ron Bigony
Houston, TX Thursday, November 13, 2025 Jean - Words fail at a time such as this, but know you are on my mind and I wish you and your family my sincere condolences.Ron Ablowich
Durham, NH Thursday, November 13, 2025 Jean: I am so sorry for your loss. My prayers and thoughts to you and your family.Ron
Larry and Jan Kimberlin
Greenville, TX Wednesday, November 12, 2025 Jim was a special friend to us and so many people in Greenville. We have missed seeing him around town since the move to Beaumont. Our prayers are with the family, as we keep many memories in our hearts of the times we shared. We always considered Jim as a leader, friend, and Christian brother. We will be out of town for the service this weekend, but know that your family will be in our hearts.