Willliam Samuel Morris, IV

William Samuel Morris IV, of Venice, FL, passed away peacefully on December 18, 2024 with his wife and kids by his side at the age of 69 after a brave journey with glioblastoma which he battled with strength and grace. 

William was born on July 19, 1955 in Glens Falls, NY to William Samuel Morris III and Mary Louise Morris. He attended the International School in Athens, Greece for his lower grades, and then finished the upper grades at St. Stephens in Rome, Italy. Upon his high school graduation, Bill attended the University of Miami and received his BA in marine biology and an MBA in finance and was a proud “Cane” until the day he died.

In addition to his 38-year career with AT&T, Bill was passionate about giving back to the community: he served as a captain in the US Army Reserves for 10 years; served on the USO Board of Directors in Seattle for 3 years; and was a proud member of the Knights of Columbus for 23 years. In those 23 years, Bill utilized his amazing leadership skills and served his previous council as Grand Knight, District Deputy, Chancellor, 4th degree color guard, and upon retiring in Venice, FL, was appointed Financial Secretary for Council # 9924.

Bill was a source of unconditional love, laughter, and inspiration for all who knew him. His warmth and kindness touched the lives of many, and his spirit will forever live on in our hearts. We don’t know how we will go on without him, but we promise to do our best to honor his memory throughout our lifetime.

Bill is survived by his wife Katie (Spriet) Morris, his mother Mary Louise Morris, his sister Mary Grace Bernheim (John), and his children Elizabeth Morris and her husband Clif Wooten, and William Samuel Morris V. He also leaves behind his beloved grandson, William Sullivan Wooten (Vann). He was predeceased by his father, William Samuel Morris III. 

Relatives and friends are kindly invited to Bill’s Celebration of Life on Saturday, January 18th at 10:00am at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church, 1301 Center Road, Venice, FL 34285 with internment immediately following the liturgy in the Memorial Garden. 

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that you donate to the “William Samuel Morris Scholarship Fund” which was created by the Knights of Columbus Council 9924 and will award four (4) annual $1,000 scholarships to deserving teens at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Parish. By donating, you’re not just supporting a program—you’re helping young people with their education. Together in Bill’s honor, let’s give others the gift of continued learning.

Click here to donate to the William S Morris Scholarship Fund.