Carmella Morris died on Tuesday, July 6, 2010 after a brief, but brave battle with lung cancer.
Carmella was born on July 11, 1944 in St. Louis, MO and was active in the St. Louis community throughout her life. She was a graduate of Beaumont High School (class of 62’), attended Northeast Missouri State Teachers College (Truman State) in Kirksville, MO, and graduated with honors from Harris-Stowe State University in St. Louis. She spent her career with St. Louis Public Schools as a Special Ed. Resource Teacher. Carmella retired after a 30-year career of teaching and touching the lives of many young people as well as her colleagues through mentorship and encouragement.
Carmella was an active volunteer for many civic and community organizations including Boy Scouts of America, Annie Malone Children’s Home and the American Red Cross. Additionally, she was an usher at the Fox Theater, volunteer at the Convention & Visitors Center, Forest Park Visitors Information Booth and participated in many fund-raising walks for cancer and Alzheimer’s research. Mal was a loving, caring and giving person with a quick smile and wit. She traveled extensively with friends to Europe, Asia, Africa and the Americas…Mal enjoyed life!
Carmella was preceded in death by her parents, William Morris, Sr. and Ruby Worsham Morris. She is survived by her sisters, Hazel Morris, and Emma Morris; brother William (Diane) Morris, Jr.; niece, Amanda (Lawrence) Shields; nephews, Morgan Williamson and Guy Williamson; and great-niece, Mackenzie Shields. She will be lovingly remembered as a wonderful godmother, cousin, friend and mentor to many.
In keeping with her lifelong legacy of helping others, Carmella donated her body to Washington University School of Medicine. At her request, no funeral or memorial services will be held.
Memorial contributions may be made in her memory to the American Cancer Society, 4207 Lindell Blvd., St. Louis MO 63108; or Alzheimer’s Association, St. Louis Chapter, 9370 Olive Blvd., St. Louis MO 63132.