John J. Morris

John J. Morris, 97 of Wilkes-Barre PA passed away January 19, 2025 surrounded with love from his family and dedicated caregivers. He is now with his parents, brothers Tom & Christy Morris, sisters Rose Asaif and Sarah Mozloom, nephew Joseph Morris, and niece Lillian Klinger.

John was born November 23, 1927, the son of Lulu and Joseph Morris. An alumni of GAR, John enlisted in the US Navy in 1945, as one of over 1,000 sailors aboard the USS Saidor Aircraft Carrier, whose mission was to sink enemy war ships after the war. John was among the last of our World War II vets.

After the war, John displayed his entrepreneur spirit and enjoyed a successful 60-year business career, having owned an ESSO Service Station in Kington, Midway Motors dealership in Wyoming and Aunt Sarah’s Restaurant in W-B, which became a community gathering spot for many. After his retirement, John could often be found at the Mohegan Suns Casino where he was known as “the Mayor” running the tables well into his 90s.

John lived life to the fullest, lived it his way, and had the DNA of the greatest generation. John had a contagious personality, infectious smile, and was flirting with his caregivers right up until the end. Everyone loved Johnny.

A special thanks to his caregivers who loved on him at the NY Village of Penfield and NY Webster Comfort Care. John is survived by his children, Patricia Milone (Sal), Pamela Ellis (David), Mark Morris, Desiree Edwards (Jay), Jared Cooney (Jennifer), nephews Bernie Mozloom (Diane), Elias Mozloom (Barbara), Tony Morris, niece Christine Hershey (Ken), 7 grandchildren and 4 great-grandchildren.

Relatives and friends are invited to John’s viewing Friday January 24 from 10 to 11am at St. Anthony/St. George Maronite Catholic Church, 311 Park Ave, Wilkes-Barre, PA. The viewing will be followed by a funeral mass at 11am culminating with his burial service at St. Mary’s cemetery in Hanover Township. Father Adib Salamed will be the celebrant.

Memorial donations may be made to the Veterans Outreach Center (447 South Ave Rochester, NY 14620) in memory of John Morris. Arrangements are in the care of Kniffen O’Malley Leffler Funeral & Cremation Service, 465 S. Main Street, Wilkes-Barre.