Father Loyd D. Morris

It is with great sadness, we announce the passing of Loyd Dean Morris, a loving and devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, shepherd to his flock, and friend to all. Loyd peacefully departed this life on Sunday, January 14, 2024, surrounded by his loving family. It seems fitting that he chose a Sunday, his favorite day, to join our beloved Lord and Savior. We find solace in knowing he now shines in the glorious light of our Lord, reunited with Fran, his "beautiful bride,” as he called her until his last day.

Born in Tulia, TX on January 27, 1937, to Loyd Leon Morris and Ethel Kathleen Huxford Morris, Loyd was the oldest of 2 boys. His brother Don preceded him in death. He is survived by his sister-in-law, Donna Morris.

His journey began at Texas Technological College, leading him to San Angelo Junior College and ultimately earning a degree in Production Management from North Texas State College. His career started at American National Insurance Company in Galveston, where in those halls, fate led him to Frances Tolbert, forever altering his world. In less than six months, they married and embarked on a life rooted in the Methodist church. After the birth of their first son, Greg, they sought a new church home. They found their spiritual home in an Episcopal church, Holy Nativity in Plano. Loyd and Fran often said, “We found a church that needed us as much as we needed them.” Loyd's path to the priesthood began here, and while it scared him, he was driven by a divine calling he couldn't ignore. Their youngest son Grant was born as Loyd spent his time working full-time and going to seminary for 10 months out of each year. After this, he attended the Anglican School of Theology at the University of Dallas and earned a Licentiate in theology. He was ordained a Deacon in 1976 and a priest in 1977. He spent the next two decades ministering and doing pastoral care for the Episcopal Diocese of Dallas at many churches in the DFW metroplex.

In the early '90s, he felt a calling to explore the Catholic priesthood, a testament to his unwavering commitment to spiritual growth and service. He along with Fr. Tim Church began the years-long process to become an ordained married Catholic priest. This included years of schooling and petitioning the Pope for this special dispensation. He and Fr. Church took a group of devoted parishioners and began St. Gregory’s. The challenges of this time only made Loyd’s commitment to serving the Church stronger. He spent the next three decades herding his flocks at multiple parishes in the area. His love and service to the Knights of Columbus during these years was a great source of pride that he spoke of often.

Lifelong learning defined Loyd's later years, marked by a passion for genealogy research. His love for tracing ancestors, discovering their stories, and chronicling his family's military contributions culminated in a book for future generations. Loyd's gentle nature, deep faith, and caregiving spirit will forever echo in the hearts of his family.

Preceded in death by his devoted wife, Frances Marian Morris, of 59 years, Loyd is survived by his sons Gregory Scott and wife Kerri of Plano, and Grant Lee and wife Tina in Bettendorf, Iowa. His legacy lives on through grandchildren Molly, Cooper, Claire, Carson, and great-grandchildren Ava and Evan. Survived by his brother-in-law Chet Tolbert and wife Betty, numerous nieces, nephews, and a countless flock of friends and parishioners. Loyd's impact remains immeasurable.

The Rosary is at 1:30 p.m. Saturday January 27, 2024 and the Mass of Christian Burial is at 2:00 p.m. Saturday, January 27, 2024, his birthday, both at St. Monica Catholic Church in Dallas, The Most Revered Gregory Kelly, Celebrant and brother Priests, Interment Calvary Hill Cemetery, Priest Circle.

In lieu of flowers and to honor Loyd’s passion for the lives of the unborn, memorial contributions can be made to Birth Choice, 8610 Greenville Lane, Dallas, TX 75243.