Mr. Walter "Big Walt" Morris Jr.

Walter Morris Jr., 75, of Magnolia, transitioned from Magnolia Regional Center on May 8, 2026. Walter was born on October 22, 1950, to Mr. Walter Morris Sr. and Ruth T. Morris in Tampa, Florida. Because of his father’s military career (Air Force), Walter experienced the life and culture of several countries (Spain, France, and Germany) at a young age. Eventually, Walter’s family moved back to the US and settled in Magnolia, where he attended Columbia High and was an exceptional athlete (State High Jump Champion ‘69). He graduated in 1969. Walter was also a phenomenal musician and singer. He was in several bands over the years, playing locally for reunions, public events, the County Fair, and opening for well-known artists. In 1996, Walter became a member of Jones Chapel Baptist Church and dedicated his life and musical talents to minister to the hearts of others in service to God. In 2023, he became a member of Bethlehem Baptist Church, where he continued his ministry. Walter and Virgie met as teenagers, and though their lives took different paths, they were reunited in 1982. Walter married Virgie McGraw Smith on March 17, 1986. Together, they have three children: Dawn, Marc, and Walter III. Walter was preceded in transition by his parents and brother, Rayfield Morris (Tampa, FL). Walter (Big Daddy) will live on in the hearts and minds of his wife, Virgie Morris of Magnolia, AR; One daughter, Dawn (Ron) Sanders of Little Rock, AR; Two sons, Marc (Ambra) Smith of Zebulon, NC, and Walter Morris III of Magnolia, AR; One sister, Peggy Morris of Magnolia, AR; Five grandchildren: Urich Sanders of Athens, AL, Kyron Sanders of Irving, TX, Nickia Sanders of Washington, D.C., Corban Smith of Zebulon, NC, and Inari Morris of Magnolia, AR; One nephew, Rev. Robert F. Morris II of Longmont, CO; and Jonathan Brewer, his young friend who became like a son, as well as nieces, nephews, cousins, and many, many friends. Celebration of Life services will be held Saturday, May 23rd, 2026, at Bethlehem Missionary Baptist Church in Magnolia, Arkansas at 11:00 a.m., with burial to follow at 23rd Psalms Cemetery in Magnolia, under the direction of R.L. Reed Funeral Home, LLC. Dr. B.J. Harris, Pastor. Minister Robert F. Morris II, Eulogist. Visitation will be Friday, {May 22nd}, from 1:00 – 4:00 p.m. at R.L. Reed Funeral Home. A final viewing will take place before services from 10:00 – 10:45 a.m., so please govern yourselves accordingly. “For precaution due to the COVID-19, Masks are Encouraged but Not Required While Attending the Services and During Visitation Hours. However, wearing masks ensures safety for you and others. Thank you.”

Mr. Walter "Big Walt" Morris Jr.

October 22, 1950 - May 8, 2026

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Mr. Walter "Big Walt" Morris Jr.

October 22, 1950 - May 8, 2026

Obituary Notification

What We Do

Flowers & Gifts

About Us

Resources

Obituaries

Grief & Healing

Contact Information