Obituary of Orris H Morrison, Jr, 78

Orris H. Morrison, Jr., 78, formerly of Bellefonte, passed away peacefully at Alden Court of Waterford in Aurora, Illinois on November 23rd, 2018. Orris, also known as “Orrie” and “Bud”, was born on January 15, 1940 in Bellefonte, Pennsylvania to the late Orris H. Morrison, Sr. & Dorothy Shope Morrison.

Orris was a piano technician by trade and an extremely gifted musician who began playing the piano by ear at the age of 4, when his mother was surprised to hear him reproducing a song from the radio without ever having had a lesson. He began formal lessons at the age 10 and later, was invited to play Sunday services at St. John Lutheran Church at the age of 18 and remained an organist there for over 60 years.

A lifelong resident of Bellefonte, Orris’ gift of music touched many people’s lives. He played for countless weddings, recitals and funerals in the Centre County region. His passion and talent for music delighted many with his unique ability to improvise, insert playful touches into his playing and showcase his sense of humor by playing tunes out of key. He could play anything he heard without any sheet music.

Orris graduated from Bellefonte Area High School in 1957. He attended the Rockwell School of Tuning in Clearfield, PA and helped found the local chapter of the American Guild of Organists in 1969 which he was a member as well as the Williamsport chapter.

Orris is survived by his sister, Janice Morrison Lee of Yorkville, Illinois and four nieces and nephews.

Along with his parents, Orris was preceded in death by a sister, Annette Morrison Gonder.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to St. John Lutheran Church, 216 Mc Allister St, Bellefonte, PA 16823.

Visitation will be on Friday, November 30,2018 from 6-8pm at the St. John Lutheran Church, 216 Mc Allister St, Bellefonte, PA 16823. Funeral services will be on Saturday, December 1, 2018 at 10am at the church with Pastor Will Osman officiating. Burial will be at Centre County Memorial Park in State College.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Kader-Neff Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Inc. 135 Main St. Howard. An online guest book can be signed or condolences to the family available at www.kader-neff.com.