Mike Morris, 72, of Durant, Oklahoma, passed away on May 16, 2026. Mike was born on August 10, 1953, in Sherman, Texas, to Tilman C. Morris and Una Deen Morris. He was raised in Durant and graduated from Durant High School in 1971.
A lifelong learner with an extraordinary gift for mathematics and technology, Mike continued his education at Southeastern Oklahoma State University and Oklahoma State University in Mathematics and Computer Science. While attending Oklahoma State University, he worked as a motorcycle mechanic. Mike built a distinguished career in mathematics and computer science, beginning with his work at Conoco in Ponca City. He later returned to his hometown of Durant, where he devoted many years to educating and mentoring students as a professor at Southeastern Oklahoma State University. Committed to serving his community, Mike dedicated his time and leadership to the Durant City Council and the People First Industries Board. He believed in giving back and worked to make Durant a better place for future generations.
Mike treasured his family. He loved spending time with his children, Lori and Kurt, and was deeply devoted to Kurt’s care, routines, and well-being. The special bond they shared brought joy and purpose to his life. He was equally proud of his grandchildren and cherished every opportunity to be part of their lives. Mike’s greatest passion was the open road. A motorcyclist since the age of 14, he spent decades touring on motorcycles and building lifelong friendships within the Honda and Harley Davidson communities and his local fellow riders in the Texoma area.
Mike was preceded in death by his parents, Tilman C. Morris and Una Deen Morris, and by his beloved grandmother, Una Gray.
He is survived by his devoted companion and “handler,” Candy Horsley; his daughter, Lori Taylor and husband Dallas Taylor; his son, Kurt Morris; his grandchildren, Lane Taylor and Owen Taylor; his brother, Jerry Morris; and the mother of his children, Lou Anne Fields. He also leaves behind many extended family members, friends, former students, colleagues, and fellow riders who will miss him dearly.
A celebration of Mike’s amazing life will be held at 10 a.m. July 25, 2026, at the VPAC on the campus of SOSU. The family will receive friends on Friday, July 24 from 6-8 p.m. at Brown’s Durant Funeral Service, located at 4900 W. US Hwy 70 in Durant. Guests are invited to dress honoring Mike’s love of bright colors, jeans and t-shirts.
Arrangements are under the direction of Brown’s Durant Funeral and Cremation Service.