Lawrence Preston Morris, age 81 of Maxton, on Monday, April 25, 2011 went to heaven to be with the Lord, hug his wife of 52 years, Becky Pate Morris, and help tend the “big garden in the sky.”

A Celebration of Life Service will be 6 p.m. Thursday at the First Presbyterian Church in Maxton. The family will have a time of fellowship and refreshments in the church fellowship hall immediately following the service. A family burial with military honors will be held prior to the memorial service.

Lawrence is survived by three grateful sons, Lawrence Preston “Pete” Morris, Jr. and wife, Frances, Alan Pate Morris and wife, Mendy, and Eric Stewart Morris and wife, Kim; his caring and beloved sister, Jean Morris Mattison; brother-in-law, Gilbert Pate; sisters-in-law, Edna Pate and Lib Morris; grandchildren Austin and wife, Mariah, Sara and husband, Ronnie, Kaitlyn, and Stewart; great grandchildren Liliana, Wyatt and Bryce; special cousin, Carl Morris and wife, Frances; former daughter-in-law, Mary Neil Thompson; and the many loyal and friendly customers of Morris Plant Farm.

For over 55 years he passionately managed E. Morris and Son Plant Farm, home of the world famous “Morris Improved Heading Collard.” He was well-respected for many things, especially his knowledge of gardening.

After graduating from North Carolina State University, he bravely served our country in the U.S. Army. He fought in the Korean Conflict and was twice wounded in battle.

Aviation was another passion he enjoyed throughout life. Lawrence was a commercially rated pilot who loved flying, watching airplanes, and visiting airports.

He added much, took little, and left this world a better place. Take heart that he is with the Lord and looking down from heaven, smiling at beautiful gardens and high-flying airplanes.

Memorials would be gratefully appreciated for the First Presbyterian Church, P.O. Box 5, Maxton, NC 28364.

We love you Lawrence Preston Morris.

McDougald Funeral Home and Crematorium is serving the family.

A memorial register is at: www.McDougald.com.