(1924 – 2006)
Mrs. Olive Holman Morris, affectionately known as “Pollye,” was born June 15, 1924, to Amos Adolphus and Olive Nelson Holman of Columbiana, Alabama. Pollye was one of four children.
Pollye was married to William Royce Morris in December of 1943. Royce and Pollye operated a dairy farm for many years. Their children are Randall Royce Morris, Karen Morris Jones, and Caleb Nelson Morris. The extended family also includes 12 grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren.
Mrs. Morris began her secretarial work with the Shelby County Extension office in 1946 and retired in 1978 after 33 years of service. During her tenure, she “trained” many agents and helped many 4H’ers with their record books. She ran the mimeograph machine, typed many an Extension newsletter, and performed all of the little things that it took to make a successful office.
Outside of Extension, Pollye was an active member of Bethal Baptist Church, serving as Secretary-Treasurer. She also served as a Director for the Shelby County Farmer’s Federation for many years.
Karen Morris Jones, Pollye’s daughter, shares these memories: “My father’s mother lived with us and did all the household chores while Mother was working out of the home. Therefore, Mother didn’t get a lot of practice cooking. However, when my grandmother passed away, Mother had to step up to the plate. Her saving grace was that great Auburn cookbook. No cook should be without it.” Also, “Mother was also a devoted Auburn football fan. She loved to watch them on TV and would plan her schedule around their games. War Eagle!”
Karen goes on to say, “My Mother was extremely faithful to her church, family, and job. Everyone she knew loved her and sought her advice and counsel. Oh yeah, she made the best pound cake you’ve ever tasted.”
Pollye was an Extension oriented person. She loved people. She was always smiling and happy and ready to help agents and clients. She was an excellent secretary.
Her family, friends, and co-workers remember Pollye lovingly. To honor Pollye and her dedicated work with the Shelby County Extension Office, the name of Olive “Pollye” H. Morris is placed on the dedicatory plaque of the Extension Memorial Chapel.
Chapel Plaque Inscription Number: 494
