Obituary of Catherine Lucy Morris

Catherine (Kay) Lucy Morris 95 of Nokomis, FL went home to be with the Lord on August 31, 2023.

Kay was born in Dublin, Ireland on April 6, 1928, to William and Elizabeth O’Kelly. Growing up in Ireland Kay had a love for music, was a member of many musical societies and studied under the same teacher as her favorite Irish Tenor, Count John McCormack. Kay’s love for adventure and travel was ignited during her time as a stewardess for Aer Lingus airlines. She met and married the love of her life Derek R. Morris who shared her love for adventure, and they moved to Sarasota, Florida in 1969 with their 3-year-old daughter Susan and 51 WEDGEWOOD Yorkshire Terriers.

As an engagement gift, Derek gave Kay her very first Yorkshire Terrier. Kay not only fell in love with Derek but also with the beautiful little Yorkie given to her. That was the beginning of Kay’s wonderful journey and a passion that would span over 70 years breeding world class Yorkshire Terriers and founding WEDGEWOOD Kennels. She was internationally known for breeding exceptional Yorkies with beautiful dark steel blue coats, excellent conformation, and warm and friendly personalities. People from all over the world sought after her dogs. Other breeders often called on her for advice and counsel. She would often say she had a wonderful life traveling, showing her dogs, meeting interesting people, and judging at some of the most recognized dog shows in the world. She had many World Champions and Best of Breed dogs. She was a longtime member of the Irish Kennel Club and the Yorkshire Terrier Club of America.

Kay and Derek’s love carried over to their other passion of caring for children. They founded " The Guys and Dolls", a well-respected childcare center in Venice, Florida. They were a stable figure in the community and were in business for over 25 years.

Most importantly, Kay loved spending time with her family and friends.  Her warm, friendly, witty and engaging personality really showed when she participated in the Irish tradition of sharing stories of her amazing life.  

Kay is predeceased by her husband of 64 years, Derek Morris, her brother Kevin O’Kelly, and her parents William and Elizabeth O’Kelly. She is survived by her daughter, Susan (Morris) Ruffino, son in law, Christopher Ruffino; grandchildren Francesco Ruffino and Catherine (Katie) Ruffino. From Dublin, Ireland, her sisters: Maeve O’Kelly, Rosemary (Jim) O’Neill and Lola (Michael) Judge. Nephews Alan (Sheena) Judge, David (Julie) Judge, and Gavin (Emma) O’Neill. Neice, Maeve O’Neill. Grand Nieces Leia and Beth. Grand Nephews Sam, Daniel and Leo.

The family will receive visitors on Thursday, September 7th from 4 to 8 pm at Farley Funeral Home, 265 S. Nokomis Avenue, Venice, FL, with a rosary service at 7 pm. The funeral service will take place on Friday, September 8th, at 10 am at Epiphany Cathedral in Venice, FL.

A special thank you to all the caregivers at Tidewell Hospice for their special care and to David Morely who faithfully brought the Holy Eucharist to Kay over the past 1 ½ years.

In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made in her memory to your favorite charity or to the American Yorkshire Terrier Club of America. To send a condolence or memory please visit www.farleyfuneralhome.com.