Daniel Blakely Morris

Daniel Blakely Morris, Senior January 9, 1945 — June 11, 2026

Daniel Blakely Morris, Sr., 81, of Foley, Alabama (formerly of Elk Grove Village, Illinois), peacefully passed away at home on June 11, 2026, having lived a good, full, and wholehearted life.

Born in Chicago, Illinois, on January 9, 1945, to Frances and Walter Morris, Dan learned early the value of hard work and hustle—traits that shaped the way he provided for himself and for those he loved. He attended Austin High School, where he excelled in athletics, especially water polo, diving, and swimming, with a particular talent for the butterfly stroke.

Dan married young, entered the workforce quickly, and soon welcomed his first three children: Jean, Dan Jr, and Wendy. After moving from the city to the suburbs, he celebrated the arrival of his daughter Jodi in 1976—a bicentennial gift he treasured.

While working for M&M Mars in Chicago, Dan met the love of his life, Paula Pizzitola. Paula, the daughter of his coworker Sue, spent a summer working at Mars, and it wasn’t long before true love blossomed. They married in 1982 and built a life together in Elk Grove Village, Illinois, where they welcomed three more children: Phil, Alissa, and Natalie.

Dan loved and was deeply proud of each of his children. Nothing brought him more joy than watching them grow into the people they became. He enjoyed sharing his sage advice and learning of their accomplishments. He also cherished getting to know his grandchildren—taking them for rides in his golf cart, sharing stories, and creating memories that will be held close for years to come.

A hardworking and frugal man, Dan made the most of every moment. He loved summers spent camping, taking the kids fishing and canoeing in Busse Woods, or swimming in the backyard pool. He had a knack for finding a good deal, enjoyed shopping at Walmart, and treated price haggling like a competitive sport. Though mechanically inclined, he delighted in buying new cars and enthusiastically sharing every bell and whistle with anyone who would listen. He appreciated the simple pleasures of life: searching for seashells on the beach, watching movies or a beautiful sunset. He enjoyed Chinese buffets, Italian beef and sausage sandwiches, barbecue with his famous rancho beans or on special occasions, shrimp and a glass of Chivas Regal.

In 2005, after 35 years of service at Mars, Dan and Paula sold their home, packed up a U Haul, and headed south to begin the next chapter of their lives.

Retirement didn’t slow him down. He was quick to lend a hand—helping snowbird neighbors with landscaping or maintenance, volunteering in his community, and working with a friend to improve the neighborhood association. Before long, they were involved in everything from senior groups to water aerobics, embracing their new community with open hearts. Raised Catholic but not particularly religious, Dan came to faith in Jesus along with his wife and was baptized at Gulfway church.

Dan was preceded in death by his parents, Frances and Walter Morris, and his four brothers, John Morris, Richard Morris, Robert Morris and William Fallion.

A loving and devoted husband, father, and grandfather, Dan is survived by his wife, Paula; his seven children and two step-sons: Jean (Joe) Barbea; Daniel Blakely Morris, Jr. (Corrinne); Wendy (Jeff) Morgan; Jodi (Todd) Stevens; Philip (Nicole) Morris; Alissa Morris; Natalie Cocco; Santino (Jamie) Abbate; and Rosario (Lacy) Abbate; many grandchildren; and several great-grandchildren. He also leaves behind his beloved sister, Shirley (John) Parson, numerous friends, and his loyal dog, Buddy.

At this time, no formal memorial service is planned. In honor of Dan, the family invites you to do something he would have loved: watch a sunset or a thunderstorm, lend a hand to someone who needs it, or call a family member or friend you've been meaning to catch up with. And keep an eye out for his favorite—cardinals—a small reminder of a life lived with generosity, humor, and heart.

His memory will be treasured by all who knew and loved him.

ARRANGEMENTS BY
WOLFE-BAYVIEW
FUNERAL HOMES
& CREMATORY, INC.
2551 S. McKENZIE STREET
FOLEY, AL. 36535
(251) 943-2391
www.wolfefuneralhomes.com