Avery Gaston Morrison, 92, passed away peacefully on Saturday, September 25, 2021, succumbing to a series of strokes experienced several months earlier. Her husband of 75-plus years, Bill Morrison, was at her bedside as she transitioned from this life to the next. We celebrate the fact that she now enjoys being in the glorious presence of Jesus, her Lord and Savior, for eternity. Avery and Bill Morrison have been residents of Pensacola, FL, since 1972.

Avery was born Avery Gaston in Wedowee, AL, on October 16, 1928; her husband, Bill, was also born in Wedowee that same year. They both grew up in the little communities of Corinth and Folsom, adjacent areas just outside of Wedowee. When asked, Bill indicated that there was never a time he could remember that he didn't know Avery. He indicated that they were about 14 to 15 years old when they became sweethearts, both being students at Randolph County High School…and sweethearts they remained until their marriage at the tender age of 17. Yes, too young to wed, but it's hard to argue with 75 years of happy marriage!

By age 22, their family had added 3 little boys to the mix: Billy, Bob and Jimmy. Bill was working with the Coca-Cola Company in Lineville, AL, and Avery was splitting her time between being a home-maker and working for the Higgins Slacks Company in Lineville. Avery's industrious nature later manifested itself as she completed Cosmetology School in Anniston – then working several years as a beautician as Bill continued his career with Coke in the Anniston organization. The strength of their union and their faith were tested through the years as they lost two of their boys – Jimmy by drowning at age 2½, and Billy in a Coke truck accident at age 19 as he worked for his dad during the summer between his freshman and sophomore years in college. Their ability to remain positive in their approach to life through these two losses was an inspiration to all who knew them, but especially to their son, Bob.

The hallmark of Avery Morrison was her faith in God. It was her anchor, as well as her hope, no matter what life brought her way. Together, she and Bill set the example of how to live Godly lives, providing a never-ending object lesson for their sons. Avery loved to sing, and was an active choir member in every church she ever attended, be it in Wedowee, Lineville, Anniston or Pensacola. She championed imparting her deep faith throughout the family, and constantly stressed the importance of gathering with other believers in church activities. She remained an active choir member at their church, Pensacola's First Baptist Church, until she was physically unable to attend. Serving her God in this way made her extremely fulfilled, and she very much hated it when she was no longer able to do so.

Avery is survived by her husband, Bill Morrison; her son, Bob (Annette) of Pensacola; her grandsons, Jeremy of Pensacola, and Landon (Natalie) of Boston; and her great grandchildren (Jeremy and Becca's children), Jonas, Nyla and Aviva Ora.

She is preceded in death by her two sons, Billy and Jimmy; her parents, Marvin and Emma Gaston; her brothers, (Bill, J.M and Mallory); her sisters, (Annie and Zelphia Mae); and her granddaughter-in-law, (ReBecca).

Visitation will be held 10:00am until a Celebration of Life Service to begin at 11:00am Friday, October 1, 2021 at First Baptist Church, Pleitz Chapel, Pensacola, FL, with Drs. Barry Howard and Dave Snyder officiating. For their Alabama friends and family members, a Graveside Service will be held 11:00am Saturday, October 2, 2021 at the Corinth Cemetery near Wedowee, AL.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that you give memorials through your church or favorite ministries.