Isaiah 57:2 says, "Those who walk uprightly enter into peace; they find rest as they lie in death."

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Deaconess Sister Janis Morris. On the afternoon of August 29th, 2024, she completed her journey on this earth as a good and faithful servant, and God called her to enter into eternal rest.

Janis Maxine Bennett was born on September 17th, 1951, in Milford, Virginia, to the late Frederick and Hazel Bennett. She graduated from Union High School in 1969 and went on to earn a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from Virginia Union University in 1973. After receiving her degree, Janis began her career with the Robin H. Nathan accounting firm. She later moved on to the Office of Personnel Management, where she became the first Black woman field auditor, working out of the Federal Building in Richmond, Virginia. Her role with the IRS allowed her the privilege of traveling to nearly every state in the U.S., and after 30 years of dedicated service to the federal government, Janis retired.

Janis was baptized and accepted Christ at an early age. A dedicated member of St. James Baptist Church of Sparta, VA, she had an undeniable talent and love for music, which she used generously to uplift and touch many souls. Janis mastered both the clarinet and the piano, though the piano was her favorite. While in school, she was a member of the marching band and choir in both high school and college. Her singing and piano playing were cherished by many throughout the community and surrounding areas.

While still in high school, Janis began playing piano for the St. James Youth Choir. She later joined 2nd Mount Zion Baptist Church of Dawn, VA, where she organized and led God's Little Miracles, the children's choir, as well as the adult Gospel Choir. Over the years, Janis played piano for several churches, including Brown Grove Baptist Church in Hanover, VA, Union Baptist Church in Beaverdam, VA, Mt. Carmel Baptist Church in Doswell, VA, Mt. Tabor Baptist Church in Milford, VA, and Jerusalem Baptist Church in Doswell, VA. She also organized independent gospel groups such as the Gospel Images, New Generation, and Divine Voices, which traveled and performed throughout the state. Additionally, Janis had the honor of performing with gospel recording artist Willie Neal Johnson.

On May 5th, 1979, Janis Bennett married Thurman Morris of Dawn, Virginia, becoming Janis Morris. She remained a devoted wife to Thurman for over 45 years. Together, they had two daughters, Michele Morris of Richmond, VA, and Frita Morris of Raleigh, NC. Janis took great pride in her roles as a wife, mother, and servant to others.

Janis was deeply committed to her family and her faith. She lived her life according to God's word, embracing her roles as a Christian wife and mother with love and dedication. When she wasn't serving the Lord through song and praise, she enjoyed traveling, cooking, and hosting family gatherings, where she created countless cherished memories.

In addition to her parents, Janis was predeceased by her brother Ulato Reed Bennett in 2022. Janis leaves behind a devoted husband Thurman Morris, two daughters Michele and Frita Morris, a grandson Israel Morris (truly a joy to her). Janis also leaves behind one sister, Sabata (Charles) Morris, one brother-in law Charles Morris of Herndon VA, sister-in laws Cathy Bennett of Florida, Careal (Darrell) Davenport, Delores Baker, Nieces Xenia Glover, Salita (Travis) Richardson, Shoshannah (Jerry) Mercedes, Shermeka (Merando) Latney, Dr Chazzy (Marcus) Morris, Meagan Morris, Victoria Morris, Delisa Childs. Nephews, Justin Bennett of San Diego, CA, Jason Bennett of Houston, Texas, William (Janet) Keys, Telly (Shavon) Keys, Corey Childs, Jaleel Baker, William Baker, and a host of great nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.