Sandra “Sandi” Morris was born on March 18, 1940, to Gale and Gladys (Cady) Martin in Big Rapids, Michigan. She grew up in the community she loved, graduating from Big Rapids High School in 1958 and earning her teaching degree from Ferris State College in 1962.

That same summer, fate stepped in when she met Don Morris on a blind date. Three months later he proposed, and on June 15, 1963, they began their 63-year journey together. Their early years took them to Virginia Beach and Madison Heights, but in 1967 they returned home to Big Rapids to raise their family.

That year, Sandi also began her long and joyful career at Big Rapids High School. Teaching was truly her calling. For 30 years she guided students in accounting, English, and typing, always with patience and genuine care. One of her remarkable gifts was remembering former students—by name or at least by where they sat in her classroom—long after they had graduated.

Sandi was a lifelong member of the United Church, where she had worshipped since childhood. She served as an elder and deacon and found purpose in the church’s charity knitting group. Her love of family history led her to the local genealogical society, where she enjoyed discovering new connections and stories.

Creativity was woven into every part of Sandi’s life. A devoted knitter and crocheter, she also explored countless other crafts over the years—handmade cards, quilts, centerpieces, shower gifts, diamond painting, poured painting, and more. She was endlessly curious, always eager to learn a new technique, and delighted in figuring things out on her own.

Sandi is preceded in death by her parents, Gale and Gladys; her siblings, Dean Martin and Susan Martin; and her niece, Melissa (Martin) Johansen.

She is survived by her husband, Donald Morris; her children Gale (Brian) Hebel of Macomb, MI, Stacey (Dave) Roberts of Morrison, Colorado, Michael (Amanda) Morris of Englewood, Colorado, and Jeff (Sandy) Morris of Aurora, Colorado; and her grandchildren Nathan and Erin Hebel, Sydney Roberts, and Patrik Gosselin.

Most of all, Sandi will be remembered for her kindness, her creativity, her devotion to family, and the way she made people feel seen—whether in her classroom, her church, or her community.

Visitation and the Memorial Service will be held on Friday, August 14 at the United Church, 120 South State Street, Big Rapids. Visitation will take place from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., followed by the memorial service at 12:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Big Rapids High School Alumni Association, providing scholarship opportunities to BRHS seniors to attend Ferris State University.