Diane Blair Morris

Diane Blair Morris, 86, lovingly known as “Bunky,” passed away on May 17, 2026 surrounded by her family who faithfully stayed by her side every moment of her final two weeks on this side of Heaven, a reflection of how deeply loved she was and the lifelong impact she made on everyone fortunate enough to know her. Diane was born on April 26, 1940 in Durham, NC to the late Cullie Paul and Martha Bunting Blair. She grew up in Roxboro, NC, also the hometown of her beloved husband, Gary Morris; although they did not meet until they were both living in Chapel Hill, NC. They spent 50 amazing years together before Gary’s death in 2013. Those years were filled with adventure, service at NSUMC, travel, a Godly love admired by everyone who knew them, and an unwavering devotion to each other. Though Diane was an only child, she remained deeply connected to her cousins and extended family throughout her life and was known for her intentionality in keeping relationships strong no matter the distance. Diane was a longtime, dedicated member of North Springs United Methodist Church where she served faithfully. To her children, Diane was Super Mom, a quiet helper to those in need, and the maker of the world’s best fried chicken. To the grandchildren, Bunky was adventurous, a “cool grandmother” with chic clothing, fascinating stories, an amazing baker of gumball cakes, American flag cakes, and her famous pound cakes. She loved her Mercedes convertible and never missed an opportunity to pile her grandchildren inside for a joy ride with the top down, the wind in their hair, and Johnny Cash, Janis Joplin, and Willie Nelson playing through the speakers. Diane carried a rare free spirit that made life more vibrant for everyone around her. Mostly, Bunky was known for simply being present. She was a staple not only in the lives of her grandchildren, but also the lives of their friends. Bunky was always at sporting events, award ceremonies, competitions, but really in the everyday life of her grandchildren. Her greatest gift was her time and she used it generously and intentionally to invest in her grandchildren and others. Diane is survived by her children, Brent Ashley Morris, his wife Hope and Beth Ashley Morris Self. Her beloved grandchildren, McKinley Morris Self Berthon and her husband, Paul, Cullie Charles Morris, Anna-Blair Cameron Self, Alissa Faith Morris and Wright Ashley Self and Lance Harkins and Amanda Styles and her husband, Justin, and Diane’s sister-in-law, Jane Morris, along with many extended family members and cherished friends, especially her precious Atlanta neighbors, Jamie and Matt Dranove and their children, Eli, Sammy and Mia, whose love, inclusion, and faithful care meant so much to Diane and her family. Diane will be remembered as a quiet server who was intentional in all of her actions. She would always redirect conversations back to how you were doing, regardless of how she herself was doing. She was kind, compassionate, and giving; yet never one to be messed with. Those closest to her felt her love easily through long text messages, midnight birthday calls to be the first one to say it, or, if you were lucky, a thoughtful Facebook message. She will forever be with us. A memorial service will be held at Lookout Mountain Presbyterian Church on Thursday, May 21 at 2:00 followed by a reception with the family in the Jane Haris youth building. The family will receive guests in LMPC’s fellowship hall prior to the service beginning at 12:30. Officiating the service are Rev. Ed Salter and Rev. Brian Salter. In honor of Diane’s generous and service-oriented spirit, the family asks that, in lieu of flowers, please make a donation of time or money that will put a smile on a child’s face, something Diane did so naturally throughout her entire life. Donations may also be made to The Chattanooga Free Store, a ministry that serves local children and families in need. https://www.chattfreestore.org/monetary-donations Arrangements are entrusted to Ryan Funeral Home and Crematory.

Diane Blair Morris

April 26, 1940 - May 17, 2026