Phyllis Gish Morrison

Phyllis Gish Morrison, 96, of Santa Barbara, California, passed away peacefully on July 16, 2026, surrounded by her loving family after a long and full life. A woman of deep Christian faith, love, warmth, and understanding, Phyllis touched countless lives through her devotion to family, teaching, and her unwavering commitment to Jesus Christ and His Church. Born on August 11, 1929, in Vallejo, California, to Harvey and Mary Margaret Gish, Phyllis grew up in Rodeo and graduated from high school there. She began her higher education at Whitworth College in Spokane, Washington before transferring to San Jose State University where she earned her degree. In 1952, she married William Cleve Morrison, and together they raised four children. A dedicated and beloved schoolteacher, Phyllis taught in public schools in Spokane and Wenatchee, Washington. After the passing of her husband in 1968, she moved with her four young children to Isla Vista, California in 1970 to be near her stepbrother, V. Rev. Jon Braun and his family. She continued her teaching career in the Lompoc Public Schools and locally at Hollister and Ellwood Elementary Schools, often alongside her lifelong friend and sister-in-law, Mary Ellen Braun. In her final years after retirement, she taught at St. John of Damascus Academy associated with St. Athanasius Orthodox Church in Santa Barbara. One of the founding members of St. Athanasius Orthodox Church, Phyllis lived a life fully devoted to Christ and His Holy Church. She raised her family in the Christian faith and modeled an exemplary life of love, service, and faithfulness. She was preceded in death by her husband, William Cleve Morrison; her parents; her brother, Harvey Gish; and other loved ones. Phyllis is survived by her four children: Cynthia Odegard Cicileo, Janet M. Finley, William D. Morrison, and James A. Morrison; 11 grandchildren; 25 great-grandchildren; her sister, Mary Margaret Gish Donohue; one sister-in-law; 3 nephews; and 2 nieces. A brief memorial service and viewing will be offered on Monday, July 20 at 7:00pm at St. Athanasius Orthodox Church in Santa Barbara, followed by an all-night vigil and reading of the Psalms in the Chapel. The Funeral Service will be offered on Tuesday, July 21 at 10:00am at St. Athanasius Orthodox Church in Santa Barbara, followed by interment at Goleta Cemetery and a Mercy Meal at St. Athanasius Orthodox Church. Phyllis will be remembered as a pillar of faith, a nurturing mother and teacher, and a radiant example of Christian love whose warmth continues to inspire her large and loving family.

Phyllis Gish Morrison

August 11, 1929 - July 16, 2026