James Lin "Jim" Morris

James Lin Morris of Columbia, widower of his beloved wife of 49 years, Charlene Aycock Morris, and son of the late James Elliott Morris and Dorothy Bryant Morris, affectionately known as Jim, passed away on April 5, 2024. He was born on June 25, 1934 in Cope, SC, raised in Pinewood, SC, and lived a fulfilling life in Columbia. Jim was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather, leaving behind a legacy of love, kindness, and cherished memories.

Jim served in the Army as part of the military police where he was stationed in White Sands, New Mexico. He also dedicated much of his career to serving others as an insurance agent with Life of Georgia. However, his true passion lay in the moments he spent with his family and friends, particularly at Lake Murray, SC. It was there that he built a weekend retreat, a place where countless memories were made over the years.

An avid lover of the outdoors, Jim found solace and joy in driving his pontoon boat across Lake Murray (often packed with friends and family), casting his fishing line, and preparing delicious meals for his loved ones - with fried chicken and fish being among his favorites. He had an adventurous spirit, always eager to explore new places, especially when accompanied by Charlene and his children.

Jim is survived by his devoted children: a son, Jim “Jimmy” Morris, residing in Los Angeles, CA; daughters Lynn Morris and Charlotte Byrne, son-in-law John Byrne, along with grandchildren John Morris Byrne and James Byrne, all of Charlotte, NC.

Jim was preceded in death by his sister Marjorie Lee of Columbia and brother Burnett Morris of Sumter. He is also survived by brother-in-law Gary Lee of Columbia and sister-in-law Jackie Morris of Sumter, as well as a host of nieces, nephews and cousins.

Jim was a dedicated supporter of his children and grandchildren, enthusiastically attending events and cheering them on in all their endeavors. He took immense pride in watching his son shag and play tennis, his daughters shine in basketball and cheerleading, and his grandsons display their skills on the basketball court as well - a place where Jim excelled throughout his grade school and high school years.

A celebration of Jim's life will be held on Friday, April 12th, at Dunbar Funeral Home located at 3926 Devine Street, Columbia, SC 29205. A visitation will begin at 1:00pm, with services at 2:00pm. His presence will be deeply missed, but his memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

If you prefer to make a donation, the family kindly requests those to be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital (www.stjude.org) and Wounded Warrior Project (www.woundedwarriorproject.org) in the honor of “James Lin Morris.”

Forever remembered, forever cherished, Jim's spirit will continue to inspire and uplift those who were fortunate enough to have known him. May he rest in peace, surrounded by the love and warmth of eternal memories.