Remembering Morris

Yesterday, my first cousin Morris, died after attending Easter services at his church. He was almost like a brother to me in my growing up years because we always lived on the same block and our backyards joined each other by way of my grandmother's back yard. We were all like one big family. Morris was three years older than me but we spent many hours during our childhood hiding Easter eggs, playing croquet, riding bikes, playing marbles and counting stars on warm summer nights.

As we grew older, we went our separate ways but always remained close. I could always count on Morris to be there when I needed him.

Morris graduated from law school and served in the Alabama legislature. He maintained a large law practice while owning and operating three banks. He was very active in civic affairs and loved geneology. He was the cousin who always attended all the family gatherings, weddings, baptisms, funerals, and school performances. He was the one cousin from my family who drove to Austin, Texas, to attend the wedding of my daughter and son-in-law.

When I retired from my education job and started my real estate career 19 years ago, Morris was the first person to list property with me and he encouraged me every step of the way. Then when I decided to branch out on my own and start my own company, Morris was the one who stepped up to the plate, stuck his neck out and loaned me $30,000 to get started.

Morris has not been in very good health in recent years so it was not a huge surprise that his heart finally gave up but even though his physical heart is no longer working, the heart of his soul will live on in his family forever.

He was the "kissin' cousin" - he kissed me every time he saw me and always called me "Sally". I love you, buddy, and will miss you terribly!