A devastating car accident on Friday, September 22, 2023, took the life of 24-year-old Jesse Ray Morris, a beloved member of the Iuka community. The accident apparently occurred around 11:30 AM on Highway 25 just North of Dexter Bottom.

According to information provided by the coroner, Mack Wilemon, Jesse was driving a 2003 GMC pickup truck when he allegedly left the road on the left side and collided with a tree. The impact caused Jesse to be thrown from the vehicle. The truck continued its course and struck another tree. First responders arrived at the scene promptly, despite their best efforts, Jesse was pronounced dead at the scene.

Jesse Ray Morris, a TCHS graduate, was a dedicated diesel mechanic who had pursued his education at South Georgia Technical College in Americus, GA, where he graduated with honors. His intelligence and versatility were admired by all who knew him, as he was not only a skilled mechanic but also a gifted inventor. He possessed the ability to create and build new things, reflecting his unwavering determination.

In addition to his mechanical talents, Jesse had a passion for endurance running, a hobby he had nurtured since high school. He once embarked on an almost 8-mile run from his home to Sonic, a journey that ended with a humorous twist when he realized he had forgotten his wallet, leaving him without water and in need of a rescue from his sister. Jesse's passion for life extended to his love for his family and his cats, whom he held dear to his heart.

Jesse Ray Morris is survived by his parents, Charlotte and Ray Steve Morris; his sisters, Jade Morris Newcomb and Haley Nikolaj (Niko); his girlfriend, Emma Jarman; his grandparents, Charlotte and Bobby Ray Morris and Joan Wade; his niece, Shyloh Newcomb; his nephew, Coleson Morris; and numerous other family members and friends. He was preceded in death by his grandfather, Hoyt Wade; his uncle, Robert Morris; and his great-uncle, Jim Morris.

A funeral service was held on Sunday, September 24, 2023, at Cutshall Funeral Home Chapel in Iuka, officiated by Bro. Craig Chandler. Jesse's final resting place is Fairview Cemetery, where a private graveside service was conducted. Pallbearers included Ethan Morris, Eli Adams, Jaret Johnson, Niko Nikolaj, Jared Kettler, and Brian Morris. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Jesse’s honor to Pine Vale Children’s Home in Corinth, MS.

The loss of Jesse Morris has left a void in the hearts of those who knew him. He will be remembered not only for his ingenuity and adventurous spirit but also for his kind and generous nature. The community mourns the passing of a young man whose potential was limitless, and whose memory will live on in the cherished moments shared with friends and family.

An online guestbook may be accessed at www.cutshallfuneralhome.com.