James T. Morris

James T. Morris ("Jim"), a native of Terre Haute, Indiana, and a beloved son, husband, father, and grandfather, ascended to heaven on the evening of July 12, 2024. He leaves behind his wife of 59 years, Jackie Harrell Morris, along with three children and eight grandchildren. Known affectionately as "Grandad," he will forever be remembered for his devotion to Jackie and his family, his commitment to helping others, particularly children, his love for Indiana and the city he served, his passion for basketball, and his delight in finding a great bargain on antiques. On the fireplace mantels of his home, his motto read, “Thank God for Family, Friends, Faith, Community, and Vocation.”

Jim met Jackie at Indiana University, where their connection was instantaneous. They were set up on a blind date at a birthday party for George, the Kappa Sigma fraternity dog, and quickly hit it off. Their shared love for Indiana University was evident to all who knew them.

Upon graduating from IU with a degree in political science, Jim began his career with American Fletcher National Bank in 1965 and completed his MBA at Butler University. He then served as chief of staff to Indianapolis Mayor Richard G. Lugar from 1967 to1973. In 1973, he joined the Lilly Endowment, eventually becoming its president from 1984-1988. Beginning in 1989, he spent 13 years as chairman and CEO of IWC Resources Corporation and Indianapolis Water Company.

Jim's passion for service and children led him to the United Nations World Food Programme, where he served as executive director from 2002 to 2007. He worked in some of the world's most impoverished areas, caring for the hungry and poor, especially children. He was also appointed to serve as United Nations’ Secretary General Kofi Annan’s Special Envoy for the humanitarian crisis in southern Africa.

In 2007, Jim joined Pacers Sports & Entertainment ultimately becoming vice chairman of the board, a role he held for the rest of his life. He was a dedicated fan and tireless advocate for the Pacers and the Fever, always present at Gainbridge Fieldhouse and working to bring in new fans and supporters. Jim strongly believed sports were a uniting factor helping to build community. He stressed that the impacts the players and staff make off the court are as important as the successes the teams enjoy on it.

Jim's faith-driven commitment to servant leadership was evident in his work for those in need, particularly children facing food insecurity. He believed that society's character is measured by how it cares for its children. His optimism and commitment to civility and kindness were infectious.

Jim was a mentor and guide to countless young professionals across Indiana, formalizing the annual James T. Morris Leadership Series for Hoosiers who demonstrate business and civic leadership with global components. Jim was known for bringing together people from diverse backgrounds, perspectives, political affiliations and ages to tackle big problems or celebrate shared experiences. His annual Duck Luncheon became a cherished holiday tradition, where he highlighted and honored annual successes by local leaders and shared stories and lessons from his six decades of public service.

Jim's love for Indiana, Indianapolis, and Indiana University was unwavering. He served on the IU Board of Trustees, including multiple years as chairman, where he championed and cheered for Hoosier faculty, students, administration and staff. His work with Mayor Lugar in the late 1960s and early 1970s - where he helped create Unigov, develop Market Square Areana and launch IUPUI - stabilized downtown Indianapolis while laying the groundwork for future investments.

Jim's tenure at the Lilly Endowment included supporting key city-wide efforts like the Indiana Sports Corp, the Indianapolis Zoo, the Indiana Repertory Theatre, hosting the 1987 Pan-American Games, the RCA Dome and helping to bring the Colts to Indianapolis. He envisioned a collaborative and hospitable Indianapolis, leveraging the Endowment resources to champion transformational efforts and enhance the convention and visitor businesses in Indianapolis.

For sixty years, Jim was central to many consequential decisions in Indianapolis, always quick to credit others. His vision, heart, passion, kindness, and determination shaped the city and state into the vibrant places they are today. Thoughtful investments in capital projects and attracting human capital paved the way for Indianapolis to become a vibrant economic, cultural, educational and social center.

Jim served on numerous boards, including those of Indiana University, Indiana State University, Butler University, UNICEF, the Boy Scouts of America, One America Financial, the U.S. Olympic Committee, Riley Children’s Foundation, the American Red Cross, the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, the Eiteljorg Museum, and the Indianapolis Power and Light Advisory Board and a great many more.

His efforts earned him numerous awards, including 17 honorary doctorates, the Sachem Award from Indiana Governor Eric Holcomb in 2021, and the Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award from President Barack Obama in 2016.

Jim is survived by his wife, Jackie; his children Tim Morris (Barb), Todd Morris (Shannon), and Jennifer Schaefer (Pat); his grandchildren Zoë Kuhn (Mark), Phoebe Morris, Alexis Morris, JT Morris, Riley Morris, Kennedy Schaefer, PJ Schaefer, and Charlie Schaefer. He was preceded in death by his parents, Kathlyne Sparks and Howard Morris.

A service will be held on Friday, July 19, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. at Second Presbyterian Church, 7700 N. Meridian Street, Indianapolis, IN 46260.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Gleaners Food Bank, the Indiana University Foundation, or the Boy Scouts of America Crossroads of America Council.