Portia Ann Pettiford Morris

Portia Ann Pettiford Morris, 74, entered into eternal rest on April 17, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family. She was born on July 26, 1951, in Nashville, North Carolina, to the late Leroy and Rozell Pettiford.

Portia was a graduate of Northern Nash High School, Class of 1969. In 1970, she answered the call to serve her country by enlisting in the United States Army, where she served honorably until 1977. During her military service, she worked as a Personnel Clerk.

After completing her service, Portia continued her commitment to personal growth and education. She earned an Associate Degree in Business from Nash Community College, followed by a Bachelor’s Degree in Business from North Carolina Wesleyan University. Her dedication to excellence carried over into her professional life, where she served the community for 29 years at the Nash County Tax Office, retiring in 2016 as the Personal Property Supervisor.

A devoted follower of Christ, Portia lived a life anchored in faith, prayer, and service. She spent time in communion with the Lord—reading her Bible, praying for others, and reflecting with her favorite devotional, The Daily Bread. One of the songs that ministered deeply to her spirit was “Goodness of God” as sung by CeCe Winans, a reminder of the faithfulness she trusted in throughout her life.

Portia served her church community in various ways. Over the years, she sang in the choir, served as an usher, led a children’s choir, supported the church office, and volunteered at a local homeless shelter. Her service was never about recognition—it was simply who she was.

Portia placed a high value on her friends and family. She cherished every gathering, every laugh, every shared meal, and every moment spent with those she loved. She expressed her love through thoughtful phone calls, birthday and holiday cards, presents, and heartfelt prayers that uplifted many. Her nurturing spirit extended even to her plants and flowers, which she tended to with the same care she offered to people.

Portia was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Paul A. Morris Sr.; her parents, Leroy and Rozell Pettiford; and her brother, Larry Pettiford.

She leaves to honor her memory her children: Antonio Wells (Angela), Constance Wells, and Paul Morris Jr. She is also survived by her grandchildren, Dominic Redmon, Cailyn Darrington, and James Darrington; her siblings and siblings-in-law: Geneva Freeman, Earl Pettiford, Wayne Pettiford, Hilda Wallace (Michael), Sharon McKoy (Eddie), and Angela Dove, as well as a host of nieces, nephews, extended family, church family, and friends who loved her dearly.

A memorial gathering to celebrate Portia’s life will be held on June 6, 2026, from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Albemarle First Assembly, located at 1501 NC-24, Albemarle, NC 28001.

In lieu of flowers, the family invites donations to the Albemarle First Assembly Hope Fund, which supports community outreach—an expression of service that reflects Portia’s heart. Contributions may be made at: https://donate.overflow.co/albemarlefirst/cash