Roger Morris

Photograph of Roger Morris, obtained from his obituary published by Prater-Lampton-Mills & Coffey Funeral Home.

A beloved friend and relative, Roger Morris passed away from COVID-19 on November 17, 2020 while incarcerated at Lawton Correctional Facility in Oklahoma. He was 67 years old and is missed dearly by those he knew and loved.

Born in DeQueen, Arkansas, Roger leaves behind a daughter and sister, among other loved ones. He is remembered for having a social demeanor and being a formidable jokester. His sister Abbie Bird posted devastating updates on Facebook about her brother’s health: first, on November 10, that “My brother roger morris has covid hes not exspected to live thru the nite,” and a week later on November 17 that “Brother roger died at 1.11 today.” Each of her posts was received with at least forty comments from people expressing their love, sympathy, and prayers for the family.

Kelly Vanarsdall, Roger’s niece, left a heartfelt message on his tribute wall, writing: “You were a great uncle. I remember you putting us on a tree out back and shaking it saying it was our horses. I am so glad I got to talk to you last month. Love you Uncle Roger.”

In addition to his family on the outside, Roger’s community within Lawton also hurts from his absence. A friend there said, “We worked crossword puzzles together and I got to know him very well. He died of the coronavirus and I have missed his presence. He spent almost 40+ years in prison, as have I.”

Roger’s bonds ran deep and will continue to impact those he left behind. We mourn the loss of a man taken too soon.

This memorial was written by MOL team member Eliza Kravitz with information from correspondence with Roger’s friends, an obituary published by Prater-Lampton-Mills & Coffey Funeral Home, and Abbie Bird on Facebook.