Avalon Shirley Morris

Avalon went home to her Savior and King on Dec. 22, 2013 surrounded by family after a short battle with cancer. She was born to Charles and Grace Gates on August 27, 1931 in Akron, Colorado. Her parents moved the family to Washington State in 1939 and eventually made their home in Dryad, WA.

Avalon graduated from Pe Ell High School in 1949. That summer she became one of the first princesses for the Southwest Wash. Fair. She later became employed as a clerk at Madigan Army Hospital where she met and married M/Sgt Robert E. Morris in 1954. Avalon followed her military husband throughout his career and raised six children that were born to the couple in various states and countries where he served. They finally settled in Chehalis and were married for 59 years.

Avalon enjoyed many hobbies and interests-sewing, quilting, painting, traveling, photography, floral arranging, reading, stamp collecting, scrapbooking, writing, and collecting dishes. She also enjoyed organizing functions such as family and high school class reunions.

Avalon was a faithful member of the Adna Evangelical Church for more than 45 years, serving in various roles-Sunday School teacher, Sunday School Superintendent, Vacation Bible School storyteller, Youth Group Leader, and President of the women’s group. She passionately supported mission work.

Avalon is survived by her husband, daughters-Cathy Spears, Diane McGuinn, Melody West, Gwendolyn Lawrence and Rachel Morris, and son- Robert Morris Jr. Plus seven grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren, who were the love of her life.

A visitation will be held 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., Thursday, December 26 and 8:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m., Friday, December 27, at Sticklin Funeral Chapel, Centralia. A graveside service will be held 11:00 a.m., Friday, December 27, at Claquato Cemetery, Chehalis. A Celebration of Life will be held for Avalon on Friday, December 27, at 1:00 P.M. at the Adna Evangelical Church, 113 Dieckman, Adna, WA.