Thomas (Tom) Morris, 93 years old at the time of his death on December 20, 2019, had been a devoted, loving, and supportive husband for over 65 years of one of Kansas City Music Foundation’s founders, Dixie Lou (O’Connor) Morris.

Tom served in the United States Army in World War II on the front lines of Northern Europe as a reconnaissance trooper / gunner of the 4th Calvary Group. His career as an educator spanned over 50 years and included work in Boston, MA, Kansas City, KS, and in the public school system in Kansas City, MO. During his tenure at Longview Community College as a faculty member for 30 years, he taught classes in composition, literature, film, and humanities.

Tom was an ardent supporter of education and, particularly, of music education, because of his wife’s passion in this area. In 2003, the Kansas City Alumnae Chapter of Sigma Alpha Iota bestowed Tom with the honor of Friend of the Arts because of his active and supportive involvement in the arts of Kansas City.

His family and friends honor Tom with this scholarship in his name. He was a man who championed education for music and the arts!