James Selby Morris

James was predeceased by his daughter, Melissa G. Ardis, his parents, Patrick and Tempie Lee Morris and sister, Georgia Hunter. He is survived by his wife, Addis; sons, Michael (Terri) and Duane (Janet) Morris; four grandchildren, Angela, Patrick, Trevor Ardis and Kyle Morris; five great-grandchildren, Jason, Nathaniel, Baily, Azura Ardis and Decker Morris; sister, Margorie Brown.

James was a proud member of the 26-person graduating class of Kenly High School, 1952, Kenly, NC. After high school James was admitted to the Newport News Shipbuilding Apprentice School graduating in 1956, earning the Niels Christianson Craftsmanship Award as a Shipfitter. James rose through the ranks at NNS and retired as Director of Construction Aircraft Carriers (responsible for steel erection and preparation for launch) in 1997.

James will be remembered for his quick wit and his true love for people. From his Sunday School Class at Liberty Baptist Church, his many years of coaching at Northampton Little League and his special love of fishing with family and friends. Whether it was bass fishing on his pond in NC or fishing offshore for marlin and tuna on his boat the “Addis Mae,” he enjoyed life and tried to glorify the Lord in all that he did.

A memorial service will be held at Liberty Baptist Church, 1021 Big Bethel Road, Hampton, Va., 11:00 AM, Monday July 27, 2020.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his name to the Liberty Baptist Church Building Fund or the Chesapeake Bay Foundation.

Face mask and social distancing will be required at the Church.