Morris Kennard

Morris closed his eyes for the last time in death August 13, 2026. He was a son, brother, husband, father, uncle and friend. To his grandchildren he was affectionately known as “Pawpaw” and “Papa Morris,” and lovingly called “Mo” by his wife. He had 1 son Christopher, whom he loved dearly and referred to him as his “sunshine”. He will be remembered for his quick wit, intelligence, humor, compassion, and the unmistakable personality that made him so special to the many people whose lives he touched.
Morris had many friends throughout the years and was truly well liked. He was a kindhearted man who was always willing to help anyone in need. He could make people laugh with his humor and quick wit, while his stubbornness was just as legendary. He was always ready for a good mental challenge and could debate almost any subject at any time—and, according to those who knew him, he usually won! His mother and grandmother affectionately nicknamed him “Perry Mason” because of his remarkable ability to argue his case.
Morris was highly intelligent and a true mathematician. He attended Johnston High School and later graduated Magna Cum Laude from Lee College. For most of his working life, he was a mechanic and worked in sales. He enjoyed the finer things in life, especially good food, and he was known as a true-blue snazzy dresser who took pride in looking his best.
Most importantly, Morris cherished his faith and his hope for the future. As a teenager, he was baptized as one of Jehovah’s Witnesses after learning about his Creator, Jehovah God, and His Son, our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. He appreciated how much they loved us and looked forward to all of the wonderful promises we are in store for in the near future. (Revelation 21:3-5)
Although Morris faced many challenges he genuinely acknowledged his actions and sought to learn from his experiences. He drew strength from knowing that our great God Jehovah is loving, kind and extends mercy and forgiveness to all who seek it. He believed in the Bible’s promise of an earthly resurrection, when millions will return to a cleansed and beautiful paradise earth, where righteous people will live in peace and where no one will ever die or say, “I am sick.” (John 5:28,29) & (Isaiah 33:24)
That hope meant so much to him. He looked forward to the day when he would be reunited with the people he loved who have already fallen asleep in death. Those who love him share that same hope and eagerly look forward to seeing Morris again—his beautiful “baby brown eyes,” as he described them, twinkling once more as he laughs that great, gregarious laugh.
Morris was preceded in death by his father, Morris H. Kennard; Sister Cathy Kennard; Stepbrother Jesse Burnett III; Sister Tracy Burnett; Grandmother Doris Haywood; Stepfather, Jesse Burnett Jr; and Mother Ardalia “Peggy” Burnett.
He leaves to cherish his memory his beloved wife of 26 years Rebecca; his son, Christopher (Tami) formerly named Christopher Morris Kennard, whom he shared with former spouse Debbie. Stepson Douglas Jr.; Stepdaughter Shedrika; four beautiful grandchildren, Serenity, Haven, Vera, and Loyal; three Step-grandchildren, Me-kyah, Franchot III, Elijah and Step-great-granddaughter Phoenix.
He is also survived by his Sisters, Debra Cyphers (Don) and Tisha White, and his brother, Emmanuel Burnett (Angela). A host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family, friends, and many others who knew and loved him.
Morris leaves behind memories that will not easily fade—his laughter, his humor, his intelligence, his love of good food and fine clothes, his stubborn determination, and above all, the love he shared with his family and friends.
Though our hearts are heavy because we cannot see him now, we hold firmly to the hope Morris cherished: that death is not the end and that, by means of the resurrection promised in God’s Word the Bible, we will see him again.
Until that beautiful day, Morris will remain forever loved, forever remembered, and forever missed.