Michael Henry “Mike” Morris, 75, of New Haven, died Friday, July 10, 2026, at his home.
He was born Feb. 2, 1951, in New Haven. He was the son of the late William Franklin Morris and Dorothy Rita Bryan Morris. He was a lifelong resident of New Haven, where he built a successful business.
For decades, he was the familiar face behind Morris & Clark Garage, where he was known as one of the area’s finest mechanics. Every person who walked through the doors of his garage was treated like a friend. His kindness, generosity, and willingness to help others left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him.
Outside the garage, his greatest passion was drag racing. He was a proud and respected member of the racing community and especially cherished his beloved 1957 Chevrolet Bel Air, a car he had owned for most of his life. That classic Chevrolet wasn’t just a vehicle, it was a reflection of who Mike was: timeless, dependable, and deeply loved by everyone.
Mike was preceded in death by his parents; his wife of 49 years, Joann Morris; and his brothers, Wilson Morris, Jimmy Morris, and Joe Morris.
He leaves behind to cherish his memory one son, Darren (Krysti Dickerson) Morris; three sisters, Sissie (Fox) Clark and Kathy (Ricky) Miles, both of New Haven, and Rose (Lex) Martin of Bloomfield; four brothers, Bobby (Debbie) Morris and Frankie (Laurie) Morris, both of Bardstown, T.C. (Donna) Morris and Red Morris (Lisa Gill), both of New Haven; his treasured granddaughter, Nova Marie Morris, who was the pride and joy of his life; Krysti’s children, Kloie and Hailey Hutchins and Austin Dickerson, all of whom held a special place in his heart; his companion, Debbie Brady of Campbellsville; and many beloved nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, extended family members.
His greatest legacy was never the cars he repaired or the races he ran, it was the people he loved and the lives he touched. His willingness to help others, his quick smile, his stories, and his steadfast friendship will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. Though his garage door has closed for the last time, the impact he made on this community will never fade.
The Mass of Christian Burial is noon Wednesday, July 22, 2026, at St. Catherine Catholic Church in New Haven.
Visitation is 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesday, July 21, 2026, and 9-11:45 a.m. Wednesday, July 22, 2026, at the William R. Rust Funeral Home in New Haven
The William R. Rust Funeral Home New Haven Chapel is in charge of services.
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