Eleanor McKay Morris died peacefully on January 17, 2019. She was 104 years old and a lifelong Tampa resident with a vibrant zest for life, genuine love of people, and inherent wit that rendered her the perfect party guest, adored friend, and much-loved matriarch of her family.
Eleanor was born on January 9, 1915, to Irene May McKeague McKay and Charles Angus McKay in Tampa. She was predeceased by her parents, her husbands: John “Jack” Peters, William “Bill” Maurer, and Harry Morris; her sisters, Mary Irene Falk and Charlotte “Totty” McKay; and her beloved son, John C. “Pete” Peters. Eleanor is survived by her daughter, Eleanor “Ann” Olmstead; her daughter-in-law, Cindi Peters; her grandchildren, John Stephen Long, Michele Long-Craig (Bill), Michael Peters (Leigh), and David Peters; and her 5 great-grandchildren, Jack & McKay Craig, Reece & Kai Peters, and Cathleen Peters. Eleanor also leaves behind her niece, Vicki McKay Kumorowski, three great-nephews, numerous loving cousins, and many members of her extended Peters, Maurer, and Morris families who remained dear to her throughout her life.
Eleanor attended Gorrie Elementary School, Woodrow Wilson Jr. High School and H.B. Plant High School. Upon graduation, she attended Florida State College for Women where she was a member of Chi Omega Sorority before graduating from the King-Smith Studio School in Washington DC.
Eleanor served on the Children’s Home Auxiliary and volunteered with numerous other efforts during WWII. She was a member of St. Andrews Episcopal Church, Tampa Yacht and Country Club, Palma Ceia Golf and Country Club, Kansas City Country Club, the Founders Garden Club Circle of the Tampa Garden Club, and the Junior League of Tampa. Eleanor was Ye Mystic Krewe of Gasparilla Queen 1937, a Merrymakers Sponsor and the inaugural Queen of Cypress Gardens.
Eleanor, or GG as she was affectionately known to younger family and friends, inspired so many with her inviting presence, impeccable grace, humor, and kindness. She will undoubtedly be quoted, with a wink and a smile, for many generations to come.
A private memorial service will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to LifePath Hospice c/o Meridian Three, 4200 West Cypress Street Suite 690, Tampa, FL 33607; or to The Children’s Home; or a charity of your choosing.
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