Dennis Russell Morse

Dennis Russell Morse, age 86, of Versailles, passed away May 28, 2025, at his home. He was born June 4, 1938, in Findlay, Illinois, a son of the late Robert Earl and Leta Leona (Chapman) Morse. He was the youngest of six siblings and grew up on the family farm. He graduated from Findlay High School in 1956 and joined the United States Air Force. Stationed at Scott Air Force base in Illinois, he met his future wife, Shirlie (Turpin), at a church youth group. They were married on April 18,1959 and recently celebrated 66 years together. During his enlistment, he worked as a radio repairman in Germany, and he and Shirlie were able to visit England, Scotland, and Holland. After his service, he was employed as a farm machinery mechanic and also worked in the construction of the Shelbyville dam and the interstate highway system in Illinois. Later, he worked as a railroad mechanic in Illinois and Indiana, keeping the track machinery running. Dennis had a passion for construction and took great pride in designing and building his own home in Montgomery, Texas, after he and Shirlie retired. He was known for being able to figure out and fix or build most anything, and often was called on to help others with building and remodeling projects. He also enjoyed spending time gardening and was an avid reader. They moved to Versailles, Missouri in 2007. Dennis gave his life to Jesus at an early age and served him faithfully all of his life. He served in churches in various capacities through the years. Most recently, Dennis was an active member of the Trinity Baptist Church in Versailles where he taught adult Sunday school and delivered the children’s sermons for many years. He was a devoted husband, father and grandfather whose faith, love, strength and unwavering support defined and shaped the lives he touched. His legacy will live on through the love of his family. In addition to his wife, Shirlie, he is survived by his daughters, Cheryl Bigham and husband Joe of Versailles, Missouri and Linda Morse of Farmington Hills, Michigan; six grandchildren, Bethany Nickels (Dan), Christa Koop (Kyle), Rachel Cain (Cash), Aleya Siyaj (Akbar), Mustafa Siyaj (Lamees), and Judi Siyaj; ten great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces, nephews and friends. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his siblings, Frank Morse, Kenneth Morse, Richard Morse, Maxine Blair and Marlene Gaston. A celebration of Dennis’ life with full military honors will be held at 3:00 p.m., Friday, June 6th, at the Trinity Baptist Church with Pastor Gary Patterson officiating. The family will receive friends from 2:00 to 3:00 p.m., Friday, at the church. Memorial contributions are suggested to the Trinity Baptist Church. Arrangements are under the direction and care of the Kidwell-Garber Funeral Home of Versailles.

Dennis Russell Morse

June 4, 1938 - May 28, 2025

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Dennis Russell Morse

June 4, 1938 - May 28, 2025

About Us

What We Do

Contact KG/Locations

Grief & Healing

Plan Ahead

Obituaries

Resources

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