Dale Morris

Dale Morris Sr. passed away on Monday, September 14, 2026, after a brief illness. He was a Texas musical legend, champion fiddler, teacher, songwriter, mentor, and one of the masters who helped spread the Texas style of fiddling from contests and jam sessions, far beyond the state of Texas. 

Born on November 25, 1944, in Sanger, Texas, Dale was the oldest child of Laverne Morris and Louise “Mudd” Monroe Howard. He was born into the remarkable and talented Morris family, where music was a part of everyday life. 

As a young man, Dale was inspired by a chance meeting with Sleepy Johnson. Through Johnson, Dale attended jam sessions where he heard some of the greatest Texas fiddlers of the time, including Texas Shorty, Benny Thomasson, Norman and Vernon Solomon, Major Franklin, and Orville Burns. 

Dale won his first fiddle contest in 1967. In 1972, he became Texas State Champion, a title he won again in 1973, 1978, and 1979. In 1979, he won the World Championship in Crockett, Texas. He later claimed the Colorado State Championship, the Western Open Old Time Championship, and the Grand Masters Championship in Nashville, Tennessee, along with countless other titles and honors nationwide. 

Dale’s fiddle carried him into some of the finest musical circles in country, western swing, and bluegrass. He played with Marty Robbins, Willie Nelson, Wynn Stewart, Sammy Smith, Johnny Rodriguez, Red Steagall, and Bill Monroe. In 1981, Dale was honored as the 17th member of the Sons of the Pioneers, the historic group founded by Roy Rogers. 

For all the championships and honors, Dale’s greatest legacy may be the musicians he taught and mentored, including his son, Dale Morris Jr., and his younger brother, the late, great fiddler Terry Joe Morris. Dale influenced many other fiddle “greats,” who will remember him for his legendary wit and practical jokes. Through his teaching and mentorship, Dale helped ensure that Texas fiddling will live on for future generations to enjoy. 

Dale was preceded in death by his parents, Laverne Morris and Louise “Mudd” Howard; his brother, Terry Morris; and his sister, Linda Morris Clark; and his brother in-law James Massengale. 

He is survived by his sisters, Shirley Morris Massengale and Donna Morris Giddens and husband Robert; his brother, Kenneth Morris; and his beloved father, Willie Howard. 

He is also survived by his children, Dale Morris Jr. and wife Rhonda, Velvet Morris Jackson, Tawnina Morris, and Abby Morris. 

His grandchildren are Marcus Morris, Michael Morris, Shaun Morris and wife Brookly; Allie Morris. Morrgan Uptain, Warren Uptain, and Wyatt Uptain. He is also survived by his great-grandson, Weston Uptain, as well as many nieces and nephews.

His memory is cherished by Kerry Morris, Valerie Ryals and Jimmy Wilson who will always think of Dale as their brother. The Morris family would like to thank Joyce Varnes for being a dedicated and compassionate caregiver to Dale. Dale’s music and influence will live on. Rest easy, Dale, Dad, Brother and Friend! We love you!