Augustus Reynolds "Gus" Morris Sr.

A Life of Strength, Generosity, and Grace Augustus Reynolds “Gus” Morris Sr., age 90, of Asheville, North Carolina, passed away peacefully on October 22, 2025 surrounded by his loving wife, Mary, his family, and his beloved dog, Badger. Gus was born on December 2, 1934, at Memorial Mission Hospital in Asheville. He attended Grace School (now Ira B. Jones Elementary), Hazeltine Middle School, and Lee Edwards High School, where he began forming the lifelong friendships and strong values that would guide him throughout his life. After graduation, Gus proudly served his country in the United States Marine Corps—an experience that instilled in him strength, discipline, and an enduring sense of duty—qualities that shaped every chapter of his life. Following his service, he attended Mars Hill College before transferring to The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Industrial Relations. Gus began his professional career with Burlington Industries, but when his family called him home, he returned to Asheville to join the family business, Morris Funeral Home, where he became the third generation to continue the family’s legacy of care and compassion. There, he served with quiet dignity, integrity, and a deep respect for the families who placed their trust in him. His steady presence and kind heart brought comfort to many during their most difficult moments. His legacy lives on through his son, Gus Morris Jr., and his grandson, Seth Morris, who proudly continue in the family tradition. Gus was a man of great strength and generosity, known for his humility, kindness, and genuine concern for others. He believed in hard work, lending a helping hand, and living each day with gratitude and grace. A true outdoorsman, Gus found both peace and purpose in nature. He loved reading, but his greatest joy came from being outdoors—whether hiking, backpacking, camping, or casting a line into the water. He was an avid fisherman who loved fly-fishing, trout, and saltwater fishing, and later developed a deep passion for tarpon fishing, captivated by both the challenge and the thrill of the chase. He and Mary shared countless adventures together, traveling to many beautiful places where Gus could fish and they could both enjoy the natural beauty of the outdoors. His love of the sport led him to seek out local guides for fly-fishing trips in remarkable destinations such as New Zealand and Chile during the winter months, where he found quiet joy in learning from others and appreciating each new experience. He also cherished the many camping trips he shared with his lifelong friends, where laughter, storytelling, and camaraderie filled the evenings by the fire. Those friendships, built and nurtured over decades, remained a treasured part of his life and a source of countless fond memories. Those who knew Gus will fondly remember his wonderful stories—tales as plentiful as his adventures. Whether recounting moments from his travels, his Marine days, or the humor found in everyday life, Gus had a gift for storytelling that drew people in and left them smiling. His stories were filled with wit, warmth, and wisdom—a true reflection of a life well-lived and deeply loved. Gus was preceded in death by his parents, William Tazewell and Evelyn Bailey Morris, Sr.; his brother, William “Bill” Tazewell Morris, Jr.; and his grandson, Aaron Joseph Morris. He is survived by his devoted wife, Mary Oliver Morris; his children, Augustus (Gus) Reynolds Morris Jr. (Vicki) and Lisa Anne Morris Bain, both of Asheville; three grandchildren, Augustus Reynolds (Seth) Morris III (Kelly) of Asheville, Schuyler Alexander Bain (Susan) of Greensboro, and Lindsey Harrison (Xavier) of Charlotte; as well as three great-grandsons—Abram, Landry, and Olivier—and three great-granddaughters—Reynolds, Bennett, and Charlotte. He is also lovingly remembered by his nephews, Billy Morris (Penny) and Joe Morris (Eve), and their families. Gus will be remembered for his unwavering strength, his generous heart, and the quiet kindness that touched everyone who knew him. His love for family, deep respect for nature, and gift for storytelling will continue to live on in the hearts of all who loved him. Though he will be deeply missed, his gentle spirit and laughter will forever echo through the mountains he called home and in the cherished memories of those blessed to have known him. A private family graveside service will be held at Riverside Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to WNC Sierra Club, Reuter Center, 300 Campus View Road, Asheville, NC 28804 or Brother Wolf Asheville, 23 Heritage Drive, Asheville, NC 28806, or Asheville Humane Society, 14 Forever Friend Lane, Asheville, NC 28806.

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Augustus Reynolds "Gus" Morris Sr.

December 2, 1934 - October 22, 2025