Troy "Rex" Morris

Funeral services for Troy Rex Morris, 90, of Gilmer will be held 10:00 A.M. Friday May 9, 2025, at Gilmer Church of Christ. Burial will follow at Sunset Memorial Park under the direction of Croley Funeral Home of Gilmer. He was called home Saturday, May 3, 2025.

Rex was born on April 10, 1935, to Horace and Ruth (Fennell) Morris in Soules Chapel, Texas. He graduated from Harmony High School in 1953. He then attended East Texas State University. In December 1957 he married Ann Vivian of Gilmer.

Rex proudly served his country honorably in the United States Air Force, where he retired at the rank of Lt. Col. In the Air Force Rex was part of an elite group of pilots that flew a mission called Misty in North Vietnam. Rex was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross medal for his time flying in Misty.

After retiring Rex and Ann returned to Gilmer, Texas where they made their home on Dogwood Street. There, they opened their doors to family and friends, creating a welcoming space filled with love, laughter, and shared memories. He eventually went to work for Upshur Rural Electric where he retired after 20 years.

Rex was also a devoted member and elder of the Gilmer Church of Christ, dedicating his life to service both spiritually and personally.

Rex is survived by his sons, Ben Morris and wife Donna, Les Morris and wife Laura, Chris Morris and wife Kristi; grandchildren, Seth Morris and wife Heather, Jarod Morris and wife Brooke, Keirsten Morris, Sarah Beth Bickerdike and husband Colt, Slade Morris and wife Shai, Cole Morris and KK Morris; and great- grandchildren, Lexi, Addi, Emry, Kye, Devin, Harper, Duke, Cash and Beckett Rose. Brother, Joe Morris and wife Sherry; sister, Martha Carolyn Lee and husband Charles.

Rex was preceded in death by his wife, Ann Morris; parents Horace and Ruth Morris; sister and brother-in-law, Jean and Larry Ward.

He found the most peace in simple moments – spending time at his cabin with family and friends, golfing, playing dominos (42), enjoying the pond and socializing with others. He often spoke about growing up on the farm in Soules Chapel and took quiet pride in the life he built alongside Ann. He was proud of his boys, his grandchildren and his great-grandchildren. To them, he was “Pawpaw” – a calm, thoughtful presence who showed his care through actions more than words. The time spent with him created memories that will be deeply cherished.

The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has shown love and care for Rex over the years. They would especially like to extend their deepest thanks to the staff at Wesley House Assisted Living in Gilmer and Legend Oaks Nursing Home in Gladewater, who provided him with compassion and care during his time there.

Family requests memorial contributions be made to Camp Deer Run, 1227 CR 4590, Winnsboro, Texas 75494.