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Nov 28, 2014 · BELMONT ~ William Rexford Fields Morris, 97, was a son of the late W.C. Fields and Bessie Poole. He was preceded in death by his wife, Roberta Mabry Morris and daughter, Donna Lee Morris.
- Family Background
- Early Life and Discovering His Parentage
- Marriage and Family Life
- Military Service and Career
- Community Involvement and Later Life
- The Final Farewell: Interment at Western Carolina State Veterans Cemetery
- Public Perception: A Sit-Down Interview with William Rexford Fields Morris
Ancestry: Grandparents Kate Spangler and James Lydon Dukenfield
William Rexford Fields Morris’s ancestry can be traced back to his maternal grandparents, Kate Spangler and James Lydon Dukenfield. The couple’s lineage provided a strong foundation for the future generations of their family. Their lives, though not as well-documented as those of their descendants, played a crucial role in shaping the family tree that would eventually include the iconic W.C. Fields and his son, William.
Parents: W.C. Fields and Bessie Poole
William’s parents, W.C. Fields and Bessie Poole, were both prominent figures in their own right. W.C. Fields, born William Claude Dukenfield, was a highly successful comedian, actor, and juggler known for his sardonic wit and unique comedic style. His illustrious career in show business spanned over four decades, including vaudeville, silent films, and eventually, talkies. Fields’s distinctive persona and memorable performances solidified his status as a comedic legend. Bessie Poole, on the o...
Relationship with Uncle: Walter Fields
Growing up in foster care, William Rexford Fields Morris did not have the opportunity to develop a deep, lasting connection with his immediate family members. However, his uncle Walter Fields, W.C. Fields’s brother, played a role in William’s life. Though their relationship was not as close as a traditional uncle-nephew bond might have been, Walter Fields’s presence in William’s life served as a link to his father’s side of the family, providing a sense of continuity and connection to his roots.
Growing up in Foster Care
The journey of William Rexford Fields Morris began under unique circumstances. Following his mother’s untimely death and subsequent separation from his father, he was placed in foster care. These early years were undoubtedly filled with challenges, but they also instilled in him a strong sense of resilience and adaptability. Despite the uncertainties of his childhood, Morris managed to carve out a space for himself and fostered relationships that stood the test of time.
Discovering His Father: W.C. Fields
One of the pivotal moments in Morris’s life was the discovery of his parentage at the age of 12. The revelation that his father was the famed comedian and actor W.C. Fields came as a shock, forever altering his perception of himself and his place in the world. This unexpected link to fame and fortune was not something he sought, but it nevertheless became an integral part of his life story. The knowledge of his father’s identity undoubtedly influenced his perspective and shaped his future int...
Memorable Encounters with W.C. Fields
Despite the unconventional circumstances of their relationship, Morris had the opportunity to share some memorable encounters with his father, W.C. Fields. These encounters, often marked by the exchange of gifts and money, were glimpses into the world of the man who was not only a celebrity but also his biological father. Despite the emotional complexity of their relationship, these moments offered Morris a tangible connection to W.C. Fields, adding another layer to his understanding of his f...
Marriage to Roberta Mabry Morris
In 1940, as the world was on the brink of a major war, William Rexford Fields Morris found love and solace in his marriage to Roberta Mabry Morris. Their union marked the beginning of a new chapter in his life, providing a sense of stability and companionship that contrasted his tumultuous early years. Together, they weathered life’s storms, celebrated its joys, and built a family that became a vital part of Morris’s identity. Their bond stood the test of time, and despite Roberta’s passing b...
The Legacy of Daughter Donna Lee Morris
The couple’s life together was enriched by the birth of their daughter, Donna Lee Morris. As a child, she brought joy and fulfillment to her parents’ lives. Even though she preceded her father in death, her legacy lived on through the memories and stories shared by those who knew and loved her. Her life, though sadly cut short, left a lasting impact on Morris. The love he held for his daughter was a testament to his capacity for deep familial bonds, a stark contrast to the disconnection he ex...
Serving in the Army During World War II
In the midst of his early family life, Morris answered the call of duty to serve his country during one of the most critical periods in history, World War II. He joined the Army and became a part of the 36th National Guard Infantry Division. His service took him across continents, from Africa to Italy, France, and Germany, where he experienced the horrors and heroism of war firsthand. This period of his life not only instilled in him the virtues of courage, resilience, and teamwork, but it al...
Subsequent Service in the Marine Corps
After his stint in the Army, Morris continued his military journey by joining the Marine Corps. Serving for four years, he dedicated his time and efforts to this revered branch of the U.S. military, further solidifying his commitment to his country. His service in the Marines was a testament to his adaptability, tenacity, and unwavering sense of duty, qualities that would guide him in his subsequent professional pursuits.
Executive Director of Junior Achievement: Retirement in 1982
Post his military service, Morris embarked on a new career path that focused on inspiring and nurturing the younger generation. He became the Executive Director of Junior Achievement in Florida, a role that enabled him to impact countless lives through education and mentorship. His leadership helped to guide the organization in its mission to prepare young individuals to succeed in a global economy. After years of dedicated service, Morris retired in 1982, leaving behind a legacy of commitmen...
Membership in Various Organizations
Even after his retirement, Morris remained an active and contributing member of his community. He was involved in various organizations, including the Marine Corps League, World War II Last Man Club, American Legion, and Gaston County Veterans Council. His participation in these groups not only allowed him to maintain connections with fellow veterans but also to continue his service to the community and the nation he had devoted much of his life to.
Volunteering at Gaston Memorial Hospital
Morris’s commitment to service was further reflected in his volunteer work at Gaston Memorial Hospital. Here, he generously gave his time and effort, embodying the values of empathy, care, and dedication. His work at the hospital was a testament to his enduring commitment to help others, adding another chapter to his lifelong narrative of service.
The Rotary Club of Gastonia
Another important facet of Morris’s community involvement was his membership in the Rotary Club of Gastonia. As a member, he actively participated in the club’s various initiatives and events, contributing to their mission of fostering unity and facilitating positive change. His involvement in the Rotary Club highlighted his belief in community engagement and social responsibility.
William Rexford Fields Morris bid his final farewell to the world on November 30, 2014. His interment took place at the Western Carolina State Veterans Cemetery in Black Mountain, a site dedicated to those who had served their country with honor and courage. The choice of his final resting place was a testament to his commitment to his military ser...
On May 24th, 2012, two years before his passing, Morris participated in a sit-down interview that provided a rare and intimate glimpse into his life. The interviewnot only offered the public a chance to learn more about Morris as an individual, but it also sparked a variety of reactions and discussions among viewers.
Here are the highlights of a sit down interview that I did with William Rexford Fields Morris, who is WC Field's son. Bill is a very kindly gentleman and it ...
- 7 min
- 201.8K
- langleyvideos
William Rexford Fields-Morris (Fields) Birthdate: August 15, 1917. Death: Immediate Family: Son of W. C. Fields and Bessie Poole Half brother of William Claude Fields, Jr. Managed by: Private User. Last Updated: August 5, 2015. View Complete Profile. Matching family tree profiles for William Rexford Fields-Morris.
Son of comedian W. C. Fields. Graduate from Columbia College, the Yale Law School, and the New York University Law School.
FINAL TRIBUTE TO WILLIAM REXFORD FIELDS MORRIS: 1917 - 2014. Veterans of Gaston County lost a great friend yesterday afternoon when Bill passed away. He was the most courteous and kind man I ever knew. Tomorrow (today) I will post as many pictures that I can prepare.
Nov 30, 2014 · BELMONT – William Rexford Fields Morris, 97, passed away Nov. 28, 2014, at CaroMont Regional Medical Center. William was a native of New York, N.Y., son of the late W.C. Fields and Bessie...
