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History

History

Joe Morris & Son Funeral Home has been serving Pensacola area families for years. We are honored to be a part of the rich history of this community and plan to be a part of it for many years to come.

We are not a large corporation or national chain of Funeral Homes.

Rather, we are a family owned and operated funeral home, and when we say Dignity of Service at a personal time” it is much more than just a motto or company slogan. It is our simple philosophy in everything we do, and our absolute promise from our family to you.

The Morris family has a long and respected history in providing nothing less than the very best, regardless of your budget or special needs. In most cases we will handle all of the arrangements for you personally.

Our History- Our Beginnings

When Richard R. Morris came to Pensacola sometime in the early 1800's, he brought the enterprising spirit of the people of his native West Indies with him. Born in Kingston, Jamaica, he settle in Warrington and became a lighthouse keeper in 1866. Richard Morris' journey to Pensacola contains the stuff of adventure. At age thirteen or fourteen, he stowed away on a ship leaving Kingston for Florida. They reached Pensacola Bay and sank a considerable distance from the shore. Young Richard was one of the two survivors who reached land.

The Morris family established the first Morris Funeral Home following the death of Mr. Wade Harvey, the first colored mortician in Pensacola. Patrons say the Morris sons were courteous and business-like in their relationships with their clients. After the death of Richard and Dave Morris, the youngest son Prince was in charge of the mortuary establishment on Gadsden and DeVilliers Street.

Joe Morris, Sr.- Born David Joseph Morris, in 1921, received his early education in the Escambia County School System. In 1965, Joe Morris, Sr. inherited directorship of Morris Funeral Home following the death of his elder grandfather, Prince Morris, Sr., and later furthered his education and earned his Mortuary Science Degree from Miami-Dade Junior College in 1969. The funeral home was later incorporated and renamed Joe Morris & Son Funeral Home, Inc. He endured many hardships and disappointments, but was successful in providing the city of Pensacola and surrounding areas with a strong legacy of professionalism and compassion for the families in times of need until his death in December of 1997.

The Difference in Service

It is true that there are many funeral homes to choose from, generally offering similar services. Some do some things better than others, and unfortunately some do not. As a truly family-owned funeral home, we strive to place exceptional emphasis of the services that separate us from the masses of corporate national chain funeral homes that operate in nearly every city in America today. We are very proud of our 100 year history serving the community of Pensacola, FL. These pages only give you a brief look at the Joe Morris Funeral Home, so please accept our personal invitation to contact us at any time and arrange to see our facilities first-hand, or to discuss any questions you may have. The building has undergone extensive renovations and refurbishments over the decades to ensure that we can continue our family's legacy with dignity and professionalism. No attention to detail has been overlooked to ensure your loved one’s final farewell is conducted with the highest level of service and grace.

  • Complete handicap access and facilities was a high priority throughout the home for the disabled and the aged.
  • The main chapel has several comfortable seating options and is one of the most spacious available.
  • Limousine transportation is available for family and friends to and from service.
  • Parking for up to 100 cars is available for family and friends during chapel sevices. We also have ample on-street and off-street parking for visiting hours and Funeral service.
  • Our central location is easily reached by car from any part of Pensacola and there is public transportation in front of the home.
  • Organization of police escorts ensure a smooth, trouble-free funeral procession.
  • Personalized services for any faith or non-denominational funerals.
  • Private meeting room and showroom for the family.
  • Many personalized items are available, including thank you cards and prayer cards.
  • Pre-need funeral planning to fit everyone’s needs.

But above all, our personal promise of “Dignity of service, at a personal time”.

Remember, service is the difference.

Joe Morris & Son Funeral Home
Phone: (850) 432-3436
Fax: (850) 433-4179
701 North De Villiers Street, Pensacola, FL 32501

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Crafted with care by Frazer Consultants & TA

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