Phillip “Butch” Morris, age 82, a beloved figure of Fair Grove Missouri, sadly left our world on June 7, 2025, after a life richly lived in laughter and kindness. Known for his support of all things Fair Grove, Butch was a beacon of light and hope in our community touching lives through his support and cheers.

Butch was born in Springfield, Missouri to Warren and Delois (Holman) Morris on December 14,1942. He attended Fair Grove High School and graduated in the class of 1960 . Butch served his country in the United States Army and was honorably discharged on Oct. 31, 1968. Following his military career he went to work with his dad, Warren Morris, with Morris Pump Service . After working for years with his dad, Butch bought the pump service. Butch owned and operated this successful business, Morris Pump Service, for many years until he sold his business in 2015 . Butch served the Fair Grove community on many levels including serving on the Fair Grove School Board of Education and the Fair Grove Fire Protection District Board.

Butch shared a beautiful life of love and laughter with his wife, Paulette, married on Aug. 5, 2005. Together, they rarely missed their grandchildren and great grandchildren’s many extra curricular activities such as, football, basketball, softball and baseball games, stock car racing , as well as going to dance recitals. Butch spent countless, joyfull hours fishing and drinking coffee every morning with his coffee buddies. Family and friends meant the world to Butch.

Papaw was a name he was proud of and was always available to his kids, grandkids and great grandkids to provide love, support and to tease them endlessly. Butch’s laugh was infectious and made all around him smile. Butch is survived by his wife Paulette, children John Morris (Kristin), Julie Mills (Brian) and Glen Lucas (Tammy) grandchildren Hannah, Minna, Gretta, Madi and Clayton Morris, Taylor Mills, Lauren Taylor (Brad), Lane Mills, Shanay Maples (Shawn), Payton Lucas (Shelby) and great grandchildren Tucker Mills, Emmette Taylor, Avery, Bella and Camri Maples and Brynlee and Kye Lucas. He is also survived by one sister Barbara Branam (Pete). Along with several nieces and nephews.

Butch is preceded in death by both parents, Warren and Delois Morris, siblings Gene Morris, Jack Morris, Guido Morris and Mary Lou Morris.

Butch was a shining light in the lives of all who had the privilege of knowing him. His journey on this earth was marked by love, compassion, orneriness and the joy of knowing no stranger. His passing has left a void in the hearts of his family, friends, and many more whose lives were touched by him. We ask that you remember him for the way he lived his life and the profound impact it had on the lives of those who had the pleasure of knowing him.

In lieu of flowers, memorial Contributions can be made in Butch’s name at the funeral home. Contributions will then be given to Fair Grove School Athletics and Fair Grove School FFA.