Obituaries

Howard Morris, age 75, a lifelong West Scranton resident, passed away Wednesday afternoon at home after an illness. He is survived by the love of his life, his adoring wife, Patti (McGurrin) Morris. Wed on May 24, 1986, the couple were married for 35 years.
Born in Scranton on August 28, 1946, and son of the late Thomas and Alethea (Sears) Morris, Howard was a 1965 graduate of West Scranton High School.
He began his career in the railroad industry with Erie Lackawanna Railway and Conrail before spending 35 years with N.J. Transit Corp. as a beloved conductor. By his retirement, there weren’t many regular passengers who didn’t come to know “Howie” and to certainly love him.
Albeit large in stature, Howard was a “gentle giant.” He was kind, generous and never one to say a negative word about anyone. He was a true gentleman who touched the lives of countless family and friends and will be forever missed.
Although he didn’t catch too much, he loved fishing. He also enjoyed playing golf and, above all else, relaxing on his porch. A fixture in the neighborhood for many years, he was affectionately referred to as “The Grandpa of West Elm.” A proud Veteran who served twelve years with the U.S. Army Reserves, he also belonged to the Taylor American Legion Post #306.
He is also survived by his daughter, Kristina Refice-Quinn of Peckville; his granddaughter, Morgan Quinn; his brothers, Thomas Morris and wife Sue and Jack Morris and wife Eileen, all of Scranton; sister-in-law, Barb McGlone and husband Patrick of Coopersburg; brother-in-law, Don McGurrin and wife Tracy of Reinholds; and his adored nieces and nephews.
A blessing service by Rev. Dr. Michael Shambora is scheduled for Monday at 10:00 AM in the Thomas P. Kearney Funeral Home, Inc., 517 North Main Street, Old Forge, with burial and military rites by the AMVETS Honor Guard to follow at Dunmore Cemetery.
Family and friends may pay their respects on Sunday between 3-6:00 PM at the funeral home.
Due to his love for animals, in lieu of flower, memorial contributions may be made in Howard’s name to the NEPA Pet Fund & Rescue c/o P.O. Box 3953, Scranton, PA 18505.