Morris Lafayette Ison

August 8, 1938 – June 18, 2025

It is with deep love and sadness that we announce the passing of Morris Lafayette Ison, aged 86, on June 18, 2025. A proud member of the UA Pipefitters Union Local 155 for 67 years and a former member of the Army National Guard, Morris lived a life marked by dedication, quiet strength, and enduring love.

Born on August 8, 1938, Morris spent his life building and serving — not just with his hands, but with his heart. He was a skilled tradesman, a loyal friend, and a man of deep character who found joy in life’s simple pleasures and the company of those he loved.

Morris had a deep appreciation for the great outdoors — whether fishing, hunting, or just soaking up the quiet of nature, he felt most at peace under an open sky with a roaring fire nearby.

He was preceded in death by the love of his life, his beloved wife Ann, his parents, Edward and Ruby Shirley Ison and two brothers, Howard Ison and Allen Ison.

He is survived by his loving sister, Carolyn Smith (Richard); six devoted nieces – Brenda Smith (Mike), Kim Smith , Kayla Anousakes (George), Karen Fraley (Shaun), Lisa Coulter (Sam) and Allison Phillips Webre (Andrew); three beloved nephews, Mark Ison (Amber), David Shelby (Betty) and Johnny Mullens; 13 great nieces and nephews, 16 great-great nieces and nephews, and a circle of extended family (including close cousins Billy Ison and Melvin Shirley) and friends who will deeply mourn his passing and carry forward his legacy of loyalty, craftsmanship, and quiet resilience. Every year, all of his extended family happily gathered at his wonderful cabin to celebrate the enduring meaning of family.

If you knew Morris Ison, you knew his entire world was his beautiful wife, Ann, with whom he shared a lifelong bond that remained unshakable until his last breath. Those who knew him knew that his heart never stopped missing her. As the old song goes, He Stopped Loving Her Today. No truer statement can be made about Morris Ison.

A heartfelt thank you to Jeanette Harris seems so inadequate for the loving care she provided to Morris during his illness. Her devotion enabled him to remain at home surrounded by loved ones. Without her, that would not have been possible and we are all eternally grateful for her care. We would also like to thank Arkansas Hospice for their unwavering dedication to their patients, especially our beloved uncle.

Visitation will be at Griffin Leggett Rest Hills in Sherwood on Monday, June 23, 2025 from 5pm-7pm. A service in his honor will be held Tuesday, June 24, 2025 at First Pentecostal Church in NLR. Burial to follow at Blasingame Cemetery in El Paso.