Morris L. Smith, a lifelong Chelsea resident, died on June 22 at Whidden Memorial Hospital following a serious illness. He was 77. His parents were the late Leon M. and Ethel L. (Jackson) Smith.
Born at Chelsea Naval Hospital, Mr. Smith spent his entire life in Chelsea, where he attended local schools. His career began in the city’s rag shops, where he worked as a material handler and bailer. When that industry declined, he transitioned to Goodwill Industries “Morgan Memorial” as a supervisor responsible for clothes sorting and distribution. He also served as a utility maintenance man for Host Marriot Inflight Services at Logan Airport.
For 23 years, Mr. Smith was the loving companion of Laurinda L Burns of Chelsea. He was the devoted husband of the late Jean M. (Perry) and loving father of Maurice Thorpe, Donna Mallory, Marie Reid, Noreen Smith, Leslie Smith, Donna Smith, Tina Danford, Hollie Davis, Mark Smith and Greg Smith. His siblings include Paul Smith of Las Vegas NV, Marlene Tyler of Everett and Loraine Harvey of California. He is also survived by numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren.
Visiting hours will be held Tuesday June 29 from 4 to 8 p.m. at the Frank A. Welsh & Son’s Funeral Home, 718 Broadway, Chelsea. The funeral service begins Wednesday June 30 at 10 a.m. at the funeral home, followed by a Funeral Mass at 11 a.m. in St. Rose Church, 600 Broadway, Chelsea. Relatives and friends are invited to attend. The funeral home is fully handicap accessible with ample parking available across the street. For online guestbook and directions, visit www.WelshFuneralHome.com.