William Patrick “Pat” Morrison, 79, passed away on Sunday, May 19, 2024, in Lubbock, Texas. A celebration of his life will be held at a later date.
Pat was born to Charles and Pauline Morrison on September 20, 1944, in Electra, Texas. He graduated from Moriarty High School and went on to earn his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Biology from the University of New Mexico, followed by a Ph.D. from the University of Kentucky. He married Marla Kay Countess, and together they had three sons. Pat was a devoted father and husband, actively involved in his sons’ activities. He participated in races with them, coached their teams, and never missed a game they played.
Some of Pat’s favorite hobbies included genealogy research and spending time with his family. He also had a fulfilling career at the Texas A&M Extension Service, where he assisted numerous farmers as a leading entomologist across 20 counties in the South Plains. Later, he became the project leader of extension entomology for the state of Texas. After the passing of his beloved wife, Kay, Pat retired and moved from College Station back to Lubbock.
In 2005, he married Mary Grayce Wright of Roswell, New Mexico, blending their families to include five sons, 11 grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren. During his retirement, Pat was deeply involved in mission work and volunteering. He dedicated many years to Backyard Missions, serving the Lubbock community. He and Mary Grayce also traveled on mission trips to an orphanage in Guatemala and made annual trips to the Navajo reservation to support the local community, particularly the school. Pat had a genuine heart for service, always ready to lend a helping hand to friends or anyone in need.
Pat was preceded in death by his parents, grandparents, brother Randy, and wife, Kay.
He is survived by his wife of 19 years, Mary Grayce; his sister, Sharon; his three sons, Anthony, Shannon, and James; his stepsons, David and Jeff; 11 grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren.
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