Teresa Ann Morris

Teresa Ann Morris passed away on August 29, 2026, at the age of 80. She was born on August 18, 1946, in Palo Alto, California, and moved with her career Navy father and family to San Diego, where she would spend the rest of her life.

She graduated from San Diego State University, and after a series of jobs and experiences, she found her calling working with the San Diego County Air Pollution Control District (APCD), where she met her life partner and husband Joe Yager. She and Joe built a life together with her son and only child, Ben Morris.

Teri was a trailblazer and environmentalist, who relished her job in the Compliance Division of the APCD. She was the first woman to work there as an Inspector, then Senior Inspector, before rising to Chief of the Division. In that role she helped to develop and mold the District into an efficient and effective agency, retiring after more than 25 years of service. She was much beloved as a leader, mentor and friend by all who served with her.

Teri enjoyed nature in all its forms. She loved hiking, backpacking and neighborhood walks, including numerous adventures at the Grand Canyon, Yosemite, Yellowstone and many other National Parks. She and Joe twice summited Mt. Whitney and hiked to the top of Half Dome. She is deeply loved and will be missed by all who knew her.