Gita Helen Morris

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Gita Helen Morris, beloved mother, grandmother, sister, friend, and dedicated educator who touched countless lives throughout her remarkable journey.

Gita was preceded in death by her parents, Bernhard and Ruth Storch. She is survived by her devoted son Robert Morris and daughter-in-law Lya Morris; and her cherished granddaughters Mackenzie Morris and Sophia Morris, who were the light of her life, loving brother Larry G. Storch and sister-in-law Jeannette Storch, and caring nephew and niece, Joshua Storch and Rebecca Storch.

Born in New York City on November 9, 1948, Gita was the daughter of Bernhard and Ruth Storch, and held the distinction of being the first in her family lineage to be born in the United States following World War II. Her parents, both Holocaust survivors, instilled in her the values of education, resilience, independence, and service to others that would define her life's work.

A brilliant student and lifelong learner, Gita was a proud alumna of Hunter College High School and maintained a deep allegiance to Vassar College throughout her life. She furthered her education at New York University and Columbia University, earning two Master of Arts degrees and a Bachelor of Arts degree. Her passion for learning extended globally, earning a Certificate of Achievement at the University of Oslo for Intensive Norwegian Language studies.

In 1977, Gita made the life decision to move from New York, NY to Richmond, VA, where she would build a loving home and raise her family. Throughout those years, she instilled the fundamental importance of family, education, remembrance, and being truly present and available for those she loved. Gita was a constant presence for her son - pouring her heart into her son's activities and education, bringing the same passion and dedication she showed in the classroom to nurturing his growth at home. Her commitment extended far beyond attendance; she was his first teacher, his biggest advocate, and his guide in becoming the person he would become.

Following in the footsteps of her father Bernhard, whose greatest contribution was his tireless education about the Holocaust, Gita made her own indelible mark on education. Gita dedicated 42 years to education at The New Community School in Richmond, Virginia. Gita saw the school from its infancy and helped mold it into the school that many have grown to love. She wore many hats throughout her distinguished career: admissions director, guidance counselor, head of the social studies department, and even the scorekeeper at basketball and other sporting events. She was a guiding force for the students and faculty. Her unwavering focus was empowering students who "think and learn differently," embodying the school's mission and touching the lives of hundreds, if not thousands, of students. She had a remarkable gift for making each person feel truly seen and taken seriously, listening with such genuine respect and care that everyone who spoke with her felt their thoughts and feelings truly mattered. Her presence was both comforting and empowering. Former students remember her as the "backbone of the school" who taught them not just what to learn, but how to truly learn and believe in themselves. In recognition of her extraordinary dedication, The New Community School forever named the Social Studies building in her name.

In retirement, she found her greatest joy staying close to her granddaughters, once again taking on the role of educator and never missing a granddaughter book club, ballet recital, or a soccer game. She remained active in her passions, serving as an active fundraiser for Vassar College and contributing as a judge for National History Day competitions.

Gita leaves behind a legacy of educational excellence, unwavering dedication to family, and the countless lives she enriched through her passion for learning and teaching. Her influence will continue through the family, friends, and students throughout her journey.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to The New Community School (www.tncs.org), continuing Gita's lifelong commitment to education and empowering young minds.

Funeral service and burial private.