James E McMorris

James (Jimmy) Edward McMorris, Sr. (age 86) of Blairsville, GA passed away on February 2, 2024 at the Northeast Georgia Medical Center in Gainesville. His wife of ten years, Carol Crossley McMorris, was by his side. Jimmy was born in Memphis, Tennessee to Evelyn (Waltman) and Rudolph McMorris, both of whom preceded him in death.  

He was the beloved patriarch of his extended family. He was a man who overcame difficulties in his childhood and was very family focused. Jimmy always spoke fondly of his stepfather Fordyce Kaiser (deceased) who came into his life at the age of 12. Jimmy shared many stories of adventures with his mom and “Kaiser.”  After high school and six months of community college, Jimmy enlisted in the Army. He served three years in Germany and was proud of his country and his service. Jimmy was an avid golfer with a single digit handicap in his younger days. His goal during his illness was to recover and get back to playing golf with Carol. He was a fanatical Georgia Bulldog Football fan, and you did not dare disturb him and his sons during a game. He had an amazing ability to charm anyone he met with his wit and humor. For Jimmy, there were no strangers. Jimmy was also an exceptionally good dancer. He and Carol met at a dance, and it was a large part of their life together. He was a wonderfully thoughtful man who brought fun and enjoyment to life with his unexpected, fully planned out surprises. 

Jimmy is survived by wife, Carol Hatchell Crossley McMorris; daughter Pamela (Clay) McMorris May; daughter-in-law, Felicia (James, Jr.) McMorris; half-brother Clint McMorris; half-brother Ralph McMorris; half-sister Jewell McMorris; former spouse, Patsy Meacham McMorris; 5 stepchildren; and 11 grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife of 30 years, Martha (Stanley) Dunaway McMorris; son, James Edward McMorris, Jr.; half-sister, Florence (Middleton) Richards; stepson Tripp Dunaway; stepdaughter Traci (Dunaway) Chamberlin; and half-sister Lynda McMorris. 

A future private gathering is being planned, by invitation, for close friends and family. Jimmy and Martha’s ashes will be interred at the Georgia National Cemetery in Canton, GA. 

We are all blessed to have had Jimmy in our lives. We love you Babe, Jimmy, Paw Paw! 

Cochran Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of James E. McMorris; you may send condolences to the family and sign the guest register at www.cochranfuneralhomes.com.