William F. Morris
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Morris, William F. GREECE – William ‘Bill’ Morris of The Gardens at Fieldstone, Greece passed away on April 8, 2017 surrounded by his family. Born on May 17, 1935 in Rochester, N.Y. He was the son of Virginia King and raised by his mother and stepfather Gerald King. Bill was a graduate of Harvard University, received his Master’s Degree in Social Work at the State University of New York at Buffalo and did advance study at Chicago University. After college, he served 3 years in the 82nd Airborne Division, U.S. Army. Early in his professional career he worked in Child Welfare Services in Monroe county and as an Assistant Professor on the faculty at the School of Social Welfare in Buffalo. The majority of his professional career, over 30 years, was in the mental health field, primarily in various positions with the New York State Office of Mental Health where he was appointed Acting Commissioner during periods of administrative change. Since retiring Bill has been active as an Elder at Hamilton Union Presbyterian Church in Guilderland, NY and in various volunteer roles with the Albany Presbytery. For many years, he was honored to serve on the Board of Directors of the Mental Health Empowerment Project in Albany, NY a program dedicated to the empowerment and well being of all persons served by the mental health system of care. Of the many gifts and blessings, he has received in life none has meant more to him than the love and support of his wonderful family. He is survived by his loving wife, Irma Morris; daughter, Sioban Morris of Hudson, MA, sons William (Peg) Morris Jr, of Greece, NY and Daniel (Wendy) Morris of St Petersburg, FL; and step-daughter Kelly Hyatt of Hilton, NY; six much loved grandchildren, Jackie, Katie, Billy, Timmy, Marissa and Christian; great grandchildren, John and Emily; his sisters and brother in-law Patricia Morris and Charlotte Katherine (Gary) Buehler and nephews and nieces Bob, Brian, Brad, Tonja, Tammy and Todd. Among his final wishes ws the desire to thank the many friends and colleagues who have given him so much over the years. Bill’s visitation will be held on Thursday, April 13th, 12 Noon to 1:30PM at Vay-Schleich & Meeson Funeral Home, 1075 Long Pond Rd., where a funeral service will follow at 1:30 PM in the chapel of the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, those who wish may send memorial contributions to Hamilton Union Presbyterian Church, 2291 Western Ave., Guilderland, NY 12084. For more information and to sign his online guestbook, visit www.meesonfamily.com
I was very sad to read of Bill’s death today but the picture of that smiling face brought back many wonderful and fond memories. He was a steady force and a dedicated, consummate professional and leader who mentored and advised so many of us at various points of our careers. It was an absolute honor and privilege to know and work with him. My thoughts and prayers are with the entire family. Sincerely, Karen Carpenter Palumbo
The picture of Bill captures my memory of him perfectly – a man with a ready smile. He was a man of great integrity, who was a role model to many. He shared his knowledge and wisdom with kindness and respect, which made him the kind of leader that spurred action and earned respect. It was a privilege to know and work with him. My thoughts are with you, Irma, and your family.
Ann Boughtin
Bill was a mentor and case work supervisor for me back in the 60’s, when I was part of the MSW Program at SUNY at Buffalo. He generously shared his knowledge with our entire group and treated everyone with kindness and respect. He will be missed by many in the Mental Health Community. Ruth Maltz, LCSW