Obituary for Chad Morris

Chad Wesley Morris

July 29, 1968 – May 17, 2024

Chad W. Morris, 55, resident of Edmond, OK, passed away on May 17, 2024.

Chad was born on July 29, 1968, in Winfield, KS to Phillip Thaine and Janice Marie (Craig) Morris. He was raised in a rustic home built by his parents on a bluff overlooking the Arkansas River, east of Ponca City, OK. He had a close bond with his parents and his younger brother Shawn, whom he protected. His father was a strong mentor, protector, and provider. He instilled in Chad a desire to work hard, care about his loved ones, and do what is right. His mother was a homemaker, homeroom mother, PTA member, and Cub Scout den mother, who lavished her two sons with love. She instilled in Chad a love for family and for God. Growing up, he attended church regularly with his family at Eastern Heights Christian Church, east of Ponca City. Chad shared his faith in Jesus Christ for most of his life.

Some of Chad’s fondest childhood moments were spent playing outdoors with his family, friends, and his Irish Setter, Molly. He and Shawn would ride bikes, fly kites, and throw the football or frisbee in the yard. They frequently explored the woods below their house. Chad also loved floating down the river and playing on the sand with his family and dog. In the winter, he loved to sled down the hill and build tunnels in the snow drifts. In addition, Chad and his family went on many memorable vacations across the United States. Besides outdoor activities, Chad was also an avid reader and artist. He spent a lot of time reading history books, and novels, studying Bible prophesy, drawing, and building model airplanes.

Chad was educated in Ponca City, where he was an honor student. He graduated from Ponca City High School in 1986. Following graduation, he attended Oklahoma State University in Stillwater, OK. He decided to become a Civil Engineer like his father. He earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Civil Engineering in 1992.

Following graduation, Chad joined the engineering firm of Chapman, Parr, and Gill, in Ponca City. He worked primarily as a water and wastewater engineer. He specialized in this field his entire career. He later worked for the City of Ponca City, the City of Stillwater, and for private engineering firms. His last job was as Design Group Director, Water, at Guernsey Engineering in Oklahoma City. In his 32-year career, he designed water and waste water treatment plants, landfills, bridges, spillways, water towers, and general civil infrastructure. Although much of his work was not glamorous, Chad grasped the great significance of these projects to the health and safety of the public. He was dedicated to ensuring that these systems were well designed and safe.

Throughout his life, Chad was an important part of his family. He called his parents and brother daily to see how they were doing. If things were going well, he was there to share in their joy. If things were going bad, he was there for encouragement, prayer, and advice. When his mother had to go to a nursing home, he bought her new clothes, stuffed animals, and folding furniture for her room. He drove to visit her often. He also spent holidays and vacations with his family throughout his life. His favorite vacation destinations were in Colorado and New Mexico. He especially loved Aspen, Estes Park, Santa Fe, and Taos. He also hiked up some 14,000 ft. mountains around Buena Vista, CO. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and coworkers.

Chad is survived by his parents Phillip Thaine and Janice Marie Morris of Ponca City; and his brother Shawn Morris of Ponca City.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to New Life Trails Ministries, 3420 Kingston Rd, Ponca City, OK 74604.

Source: Trout Funeral Home