Milton and Jean Morris Enjoyed Unique and Generous Relationship with National Jewish

Milton Morris, a longtime supporter of National Jewish, passed away on February 2, 2007. He was 91 years old. Mr. Morris and his wife, Jean, maintained a unique and generous relationship with National Jewish throughout their lives.

When he was 6 years old, Mr. Morris’ family moved to Denver from Cleveland to find a better climate for his mother’s severe asthma. His connection to National Jewish began at a young age – his best friend’s father was the Chief of Medicine here.

Morris and Jean met at East High School, attended college together and were married. Jean was the grandniece of Francis Wisebart Jacobs, the founder of National Jewish. Jean and Milton’s independent relationships to each other and to National Jewish coalesced into a wonderful lifetime commitment.

As donors, Morris and Jean were extraordinarily humble. Both of them lived the Jewish philosophy of “Tzedakah,” that it is more admirable to give without recognition than to give and expect or want recognition or admiration.

In his personal time, Morris was an accomplished photographer and painter. “Milt enjoyed painting very much, it was therapy for him and helped him deal with Jean’s deteriorating health,” said Gordon Smith, Director of Gift Planning for Development. “He was involved with a group of men that would get together and paint. They all called him ‘The Quickest Draw in the West,’ because Milt could complete a painting every week.” Several of Morris’ paintings hang in National Jewish’s pediatric ward today.

Sadly, Jean passed away in 1999. After her death, Morris “was lost,” said Lynn Taussig, MD, family friend and former President and CEO of National Jewish. “But, he was very insightful and realized he needed to be around other people.” Morris continued with National Jewish, attending events and making donations.

“It wasn’t until Jean passed away that Milton ever considered recognition for gifts,” said Smith. “Even then, his gifts were given in honor of his late wife.” Behind the Molly Blank Conference Center is the Jean W. Morris Memorial Garden, one of Mr. Morris’ last gifts to National Jewish. He meant the garden to be a place of solace and solitude, where patients and families can go; someplace warm, comforting, quiet and peaceful.

“He was one of the more gracious and generous people that I’ve had the pleasure to work with,” said Smith. “Milt gave without any expectations. He gave because it was the right thing to do and because he loved this institution. He just loved giving.”

Milton Morris’ generous spirit will be missed.