John James Morris IV
June 13, 1951-April 12, 2025
Palo Alto, California

John, affectionately known as “Johnny Mo” by his longtime friends and family, shared his outgoing personality abundantly with his community. In his youth, he was often the life of the party—his big, beautiful smile made you feel seen and special. He had a natural gift for connecting with others.

John was born in Wilmington, Delaware to Jack and Mary Morris. In 1959, the family relocated to California when Jack was transferred for work. They settled in Palo Alto, where John and his two sisters grew up and became Californians. Their home quickly became a beloved gathering place for friends, family and neighbors for many years to come.

John was known for his playful spirit and sharp sense of humor, traits that endeared him to many. He cherished his friendships from Palo Alto that lasted a lifetime.

A creative soul, John had a passion for photography and film from an early age. After graduating from Palo Alto High School in 1969, he studied sound and lighting at California College of the Arts in Oakland. His career took him on unique adventures—he toured with the band Pablo Cruise as their photographer, was a videographer at Bay Meadows and Del Mar racetracks, and worked as a cameraman for Univision News.

John was married to Annie Grassi Morris from 1982–2008. Together they raised their family in Santa Cruz, sharing many joyful beach days and camping adventures. John was a devoted and playful dad to their two children, J.J. and Aliza. He loved being spontaneous with them—once announcing on a whim that him and the kids were heading to Yosemite that night. When they arrived and realized Aliza didn’t have any shoes, John took them to a gift shop inside the park and got her a pair of moccasins. J.J. picked out a small hand drum. She hiked in those moccasins for the rest of the trip and J.J. played the drum—a perfect symbol of his silly, fun-loving way of making memories with them.

A true music lover, John had an impressive record collection and especially loved blues, soul, and rock and it always played throughout the home. John had a real curiosity for life and people’s stories. Whether chatting with a stranger in line at the grocery store or striking up a conversation while out on a walk, he was always connecting and full of wonder. With his easy charm, genuine interest, and disarming sense of humor, people opened up to him. He made others feel seen—that was one of his greatest gifts.

Later in life, John retired and cared for his mother at the family home in Palo Alto. In 2022, he moved with his beloved dog Foxy to a small senior community in Napa, CA.

John is survived by his children, J.J. Morris V and Aliza Morris; his sisters, Jean Doktor (Michael) and Patty Morris; his nephew, Jack Ingvardson (Ashley); and his great-niece, Kaia Ingvardson. He was preceded in death by his parents, Jack and Mary Morris.

John will be deeply missed by his family and friends. We will always remember his laughter, his love, and the unforgettable way he lit up a room. Johnny Mo—our dad, son, brother, partner, and friend—will live on in our hearts forever.

Dad, in my dream I look into a pond, and instead of my reflection, I see yours.