Jack Morris Obituary

Jack Austin Morris, Jr., 86, of Greenville, South Carolina, passed away peacefully on October 29, 2025. A beloved father, friend, and leader in the art community, Jack will long be remembered for his humor, generosity, and spirited love of life. Born on September 29, 1939, in Macon, Georgia, Jack was the son of Jack A. Morris, Sr. and Mattie "Boots" Morris. He was preceded in death by his wife, Luanna Morris, and his sister, Judy Bass. Jack is survived by his son, Jack A. Morris III; daughter, Dana Chrismon and her husband Robert. Jack had two grandchildren; Austin Chrismon and Auburn Chapman and her husband Michael, four great grandchildren; Wyatt Chrismon, Ayden Chrismon, Amelia Chapman and James Chapman and one great-great granddaughter, Alice Chrismon. Jack had a son by marriage, Stephen Moseley, a daughter by marriage, Stacey Leahy and her husband David as well as two grandchildren, Eliza Leahy and Harrison Leahy. Jack also had a special niece, Jennifer Castleberry Welch. Jack graduated from the University of South Carolina in 1963 with a Bachelor of Fine Arts and later earned a certificate in Arts Administration from Harvard University in 1970. A proud Carolina Gamecock, Jack played football for his alma mater from 1961 to 1963 before embarking on a lifelong career in the arts. His professional journey spanned more than six decades, including roles as Assistant to the Director at the Columbia Museum of Art and Executive Director of the Greenville County Museum of Art. He later owned renowned galleries across Arizona, New Mexico, Texas, and South Carolina. He was also one of the founders of the Scottsdale Art Auction in Arizona. Jack served as a Commissioner of the South Carolina Arts Council, was a Lifetime member of the Houston Livestock Rodeo and served on many boards and committees in the art world. Beyond his professional life, Jack was an adventurer and family man who found joy in boating with loved ones on his boat "Mint to Be". He had a deep appreciation for fine wine, gourmet food, and classic cars and always brought laughter wherever he went. He enjoyed long walks with his loyal dogs, Skipper and Bogue. Jack had a passion for art of all kinds and represented many fine artists through the years. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date in Hilton Head, South Carolina, where family and friends will gather to honor Jack's remarkable life and enduring legacy. Friends are encouraged to share their favorite memories of Jack with the family by clicking on the button labeled "Share A Memory." To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Jack Austin, please visit our floral store.