Morris C. Barnwell, Jr.

Morris Cleveland Barnwell, Jr. was born November 4, 1926 to Reverend Morris C. Barnwell, Sr. and Olivia (Green) Barnwell of Pushmataha, Alabama.  Morris was the older brother to his only sister, Bettye Mae Barnwell Hearns (Floyd) of Meridian, Mississippi.

Morris confessed Christ as his Savior at an early age and was a longtime and active member of Gilfield Baptist Church.  Morris attended the Petty Hill Elementary School in Pushmataha, Alabama and Choctaw County Training School in Lisman, Alabama.

Morris married Claudia Mae (Ruffin) who preceded him in death.  Morris was drafted into the United States Army in January 1952 during the Korean War.  In the army he spent 12 months in Germany.  He was a part of the 38th Engineering Brigade.  Morris reached the rank of Corporal.  His service earned him the Occupational Medal and the National Defense Service Medal.

Morris was actively involved in the Lisman, Butler, and Pushmataha Communities prior to retirement.  Everyone would know him as “Jabo”, a name given to him as a child by his father.  Morris latter married Charlie Mae (Smith) who preceded him in death.  He was an avid hunter, fisherman, farmer, and carpenter by trade.  He was a great storyteller and loved to reminisce about the “good old days.”

Morris lived a full and meaningful life.  During his final years, Morris resided at Willow Trace Rehabilitation Center in Butler, Alabama.  He received ongoing care from a group of healthcare professionals that gave him love and care until the very end.  Morris went home to be with the Lord peacefully on November 28, 2016 at the age of 90 leaving behind to cherish his loving memory, a host of relatives, extended family, church members, colleagues and friends.

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