Minister Tommye Jo Morris

Tommye Jo Morris - Child of God, willing to do God’s will. Tommye Jo Love Morris lived a life poured out for God, for her family, and for her community, leaving a legacy as vibrant and enduring as her unwavering faith. Born on August 25, 1954, in Chicago, Illinois, to the late Thomas Love and Martha Elizabeth Watson Love, her remarkable journey began with purpose and promise. Tommye accepted Christ at the age of ten and faithfully served the Lord throughout her life. She graduated from Vicksburg High School in 1972, then pursued nursing studies at The W–Mississippi University for Women, theatre coursework at Mississippi State University, and later earned her counseling certification from Mississippi College. She continued her biblical training through McKinley Theological Seminary and through extensive study of The Dake Bible, which she considered her true formal education in the Word of God. Her ministry service was extensive; she served as a Deaconess, Minister, Mother, and Youth Pastor in several congregations, building upon the strong spiritual foundation passed down through her family. On November 2, 1974, she married the love of her life, Pastor James E. Morris, Sr., and together they shared 51 years of devotion, partnership, and purpose. They raised their children with love, discipline, and Christian values that continue to guide generations. She also faithfully served the Kingdom as co-founder of Christ- Anointed Church in Jackson, Mississippi, where she and her husband ministered for 12 years. A gifted teacher, leader, and visionary, Tommye spent 31 years alongside her husband operating Milestone Christian Bookstore in Pearl, Mississippi. She founded consulting services JALATA, LLC, and developed impactful community programs, including the ROPE (Rites of Passage Education) program for Jackson Public Schools and the first abstinence education programs in Rankin County and Pearl Public Schools. She spoke nationally with Dr. Freda Bush, founded and wrote the Charm School for the Spring District Association, and contributed to state and community boards, including Communities Working to Unite Youth 501(c)3 (CWUY). Through her work with CWUY, she helped establish White Ribbon Sunday, a statewide recognized initiative for abstinence education. Her leadership extended to Pearl High School as PTO President, and she was honored with the Goodwill of Mississippi Community Award 2019. Though she guided countless families and youth with wisdom, she proudly considered her greatest accomplishment “earning her Master’s in the Art of Spoiling Grandchildren. ” Her love was unforgettable; she could correct you, collect you, and hug you all in one motion, leaving you feeling both loved and lifted. Tommye Jo departed this life on December 8, 2025, at UAB St. Vincent’s East Hospital, Birmingham, AL, surrounded by her family. She leaves behind a legacy of love, faith, and strength. Tommye was preceded in death by her grandparents, James H. Watson, Sr., and Rev. Thelma S. Watson; her parents, Thomas and Martha Watson Love; her sisters, Denise Darcell Love and Lois Leanette Love Price; and her special cousins, Lerris Cooper and Jose Watson. She leaves to cherish her memory her loving husband, Pastor James E. Morris, Sr.; her brother, Willie Thomas (ex-wife Aileen) Love; her special cousins, Lamar (Theresa) Cooper, Lionel (Yolonda) Cooper, Jorge Watson, and Lucia Watson; her children, James (Pamela Anne) E. Morris, Jr., LaKisca (Prince) “Keke” Camille Jackson, and Thomas (LaTacita) Allen Morris; along with seventeen grandchildren, three great-grandchildren, and a host of adopted children, God-children, nieces, nephews, cousins, and beloved friends. Tommye believed that a church community should help families grow in faith and strength. She often reminded others, “The devil is busy making plans for our children…ARE WE?” She lived this calling boldly, pouring her life into the spiritual and emotional well-being of families across Mississippi. Though her earthly journey has ended, the impact of her love, wisdom, and service will continue through every life she touched.

Minister Tommye Jo Morris

August 25, 1954 - December 8, 2025