Tootsy Irene Morris

She was born on April 4, 1948, in San Angelo, Texas, to the late J D & Juanita (Latham) Burke. Irene was a 1966 graduate of Pampa High School and went on to proudly serve in the United States Navy. Following her service in the military, Irene earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing from University of West Texas, while raising her daughters. She worked as a Director of Nursing during her career at hospitals in Wellington, Pampa, Bonham, Arkansas and Lubbock, until finally retiring in 1991 from VenCor in Dallas where she served as an Assistant Administrator.

Irene was a member of the American Legion. She enjoyed cooking and trying new recipes. Irene was a strong, independent woman who valued the important things in life. More than anything, she was devoted to her family and her friends and relished time spent with them. Irene was an amazing mother, grandmother, sister, and aunt, and she was simply adored by her entire family. Kindness and compassion radiated from Irene, along with a great sense of humor. She had a life well lived and well loved. Irene will be greatly missed by all who loved and knew her.

In addition to her parents, Irene was preceded in death by her sister, Nancy Chase. She is survived by her best friend and life partner since 1999, Mike Henry of Dallas; two daughters, Chris Steger of Pampa, TX and Sherry (Tony) Lyle of Waco; grandchildren, Nick Caplinger of Austin, TX, Jack (Kaitlyn) Thomas of Waco, Abby Newton of Waco, and Luci Lyle of Waco; great-granddaughter, Haley; one expected grandson, Julian; siblings, Bettye (Alton) Stokes of Pampa, TX, Stoney (Ann) Burke of Dallas, TX, Mike (Lauri) Burke of Dubuque, IA, Kevin (Nadine) Burke of Dallas, TX; and Mary Humble of Rifle, CO; and numerous nieces and nephews.

A graveside service with military honors will be held on Friday, April 14, 2023 at 11:00am at the Dallas Fort Worth National Cemetery, 2000 Mountain Creek Parkway, Dallas, TX 75211.