Douglas Dwight Morris, of
Rockwall, Texas, passed away peacefully on April 10, 2025, at the age of 79. Born in Dallas on October 9, 1945, Doug was a man of wide-ranging passions, fearless spirit, and deep love for his family and his dogs.
Doug was a true Texas original. A cowboy in every sense of the word, he got his start as a ranch hand and later rode the rodeo circuit as a seasoned rodeo cowboy. He built a thriving business, Rockwall Construction, with his own two hands and a tireless work ethic. But Doug was never one to be defined by just one thing. He raced motocross and even opened his own race arena, played guitar and steel guitar in several local bands, became a certified scuba diver and pilot, and explored wild mountain trails in his 4x4 Jeep.
He was also a gifted metal artist whose work was inspired by the ancient petroglyphs of Native Americans. His sculptures captured not only the rugged spirit of the West, but also a deep respect for the stories and symbols etched into the land long before us.
Doug had a profound connection to animals. He loved his horses, and his loyal dogs were never far from his side. His dogs could often be found riding proudly in the back of his pickup truck, ears to the wind, just as much a part of his daily routine as his morning coffee.
Doug served with pride in the Rockwall Sheriff's Posse and was a proud member of the Rockwall Renegades, a fun-loving group of friends brought together by their love of riding and living life to the fullest. Every year, the Renegades held a fundraiser in support of St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, something that brought Doug both joy and purpose.
He also brought his warm, welcoming spirit to First Baptist Church Dallas, where he greeted Sunday visitors with a handshake and a kind word.
Above all else, Doug was a man of deep and unwavering faith. His belief in God shaped every part of his life, from the way he led his family to the kindness he showed strangers, to the strength he drew on during life's hardest moments. He didn't just speak about his faith, he lived it through quiet integrity, compassion, and a steadfast heart that never wavered. Doug loved the Lord with all his heart and never hesitated to share that love with others.
Doug is survived by his soulmate of 58 years, Lynda Morris; his children, Marc Morris and Melissa Stoddart; his sister, Tam Sandlin; his grandchildren, Nicholas Stoddart, Chris Stoddart, Kaitlyn Stoddart, and Margaret Stoddart; and his great-grandchildren, Victoria Stoddart and Graham Stoddart.
A funeral service celebrating Doug's life will be held at Rest Haven Funeral Home in
Rockwall, Texas, on Wednesday, April 16, 2025. Visitation will begin at 1:00 p.m., followed by a service at 2:00 p.m., with a graveside ceremony to follow.
Doug lived a full, remarkable life. He touched the hearts of those around him with his stories, laughter, and unwavering love. He will be dearly missed and forever remembered.
Please consider donating to Rockwall Pets of the Humane Society in the honor of Doug.