James Stephen "Steve" Morris

James “Steve” Morris (also known as “Mo”, “Dad” and “Grandpa Steve”), passed away January 10, 2026 at the young age of 68, surrounded by his family.

Steve was born December 22, 1957 to Marshaline & Arthur Morris. He grew up in Kansas City, MO and attended Rockhurst & Southwest High School.

Steve worked in the restaurant and entertainment industry. He was a masterful chef and entertaining bartender. He knew many Kansas City restaurant owners and was a frequent patron in their establishments.

Steve was a natural athlete. He could play any sport better than most, as his speed, great eye and agility enabled him to excel in baseball, football and basketball. His primary love of baseball started at a very young age with his Dad “Art” coaching his many teams and his Mom “Marsha” cheering from the stands. His magnetic personality, warmth and humor led many teammates to become lifelong friends beyond the baseball field.

Steve was gifted with good looks and charm; as well as a quick wit and great sense of humor. He loved the water, and spent many weekends at the lake with his family and children navigating the Ozarks behind the wheel of the family boat.

Steve’s greatest love was his daughters. He spent many hours teaching his girls how to play ball, taking them to shows and concerts, sharing his love for music, sports and water. When he was blessed with grandchildren, he spent time cooking for them, taking them out to eat and letting them control the TV remote.

Steve is preceded in death by his parents, Arthur & Marshaline Morris.

Steve is survived by his daughters, Molly Meiners (Bill) and Megan Morris as well as grandchildren Ben & Billy Meiners and Elias Morris. He is survived by his siblings Michelle Beck (Steve), Mike Morris (Melissa), Patti Barackman (Chris), Teri Lippert (Brian), Bobby Morris (Beth), and Stephanie Morris (Katie). He is also survived by Jean Morris, many nieces and nephews, his Aunt Judy Honigman (Fred) and his Aunt Irene Maxwell.

A funeral mass will be held at Our Lady of Good Counsel, 3934 Washington St, Kansas City MO on Friday, January 23rd at 3pm. A Celebration of Life will follow at the Church Parish Hall.

The family would like to thank St Luke’s Hospice House and the Hospice nurses, with special thanks to Sheena of St Luke’s Hospice who was Steve’s hospice nurse. She was a beautiful spark of light in a time of darkness and sorrow and her kindness and grace is enormously appreciated.

In lieu of flowers, the family would prefer donations to St. Luke’s Hospice through their website at https://give.saintlukeskc.org or to the American Cancer Society.