Morris Winston Jr.

Morris Winston, also known as Maurice or “Tottie,” was a man with a comedic and vibrant personality. He was passionate, full of strong opinions, and always willing to offer advice — whether you asked for it or not. He loved a lively debate and rarely missed the opportunity to jump into one. Maurice was married to Barbara Winston for 57 years, and together we built a beautiful family and legacy. He was a devoted father to Maria (Morris Wells), Maurice Eric, and Mark (Lisa). He had a one-of-a-kind way of calling out “Bar–bara” — a voice and tone that no one else could replicate. The impersonations he did of family members during our “pillow talks” are now family legends that still bring laughter and warmth to my heart. He was an excellent provider and worked as a Supervisor of Material Control at Chrysler Corporation for 30 years. Later, he supported me in running our family business, Affordable Transportation — and that was an experience! Always wanting to be the boss, he was “written up” many times by me for insubordination (LOL), and though he frequently asked for raises, I couldn’t fire him — he was too valuable. Maurice was a great husband. He was a protector, a confidant, an entertainer, and truly my soulmate. He was a devoted family man — always offering advice (sometimes too much!) but never withholding support. Maria was his “Daddy’s girl,” the apple of his eye. Mark was the questioner and a chip off the old block. Eric was his spitting image. Lisa, who called him “Dad” like no other, was his ideal daughter-in-law — loyal, supportive, and always there for him. He loved his children deeply and cherished the grandchildren and great-grandchildren they gave us: Cedric (Gloria), Candace (Derrick), Chaela, Christian (Adebola), Alexia (Lonnie), Marq, Marques, and Erik. Each of them held a special place in his heart. And yes — he had nicknames for them (which they’d probably be embarrassed if I printed here!). They loved that he never acted like an “old grandpa.” He played tennis, football, spades, danced, and played poker with them well into his late 80s. He was still playing cards with them at his 90th birthday celebration. He even knew some rap songs and kept up with the hip-hop world through TMZ. To his great-grandchildren — Carter (“Lil Bro”), Lonnie Ashton (“Screaming Jay”), Avaiya, Alaiya, Levi, Ethan, and Caleb — he was pure joy and love. The pictures of them together tell a love story of their own. Maurice was a father figure not only to his own children but also to many others. Kevin, Anthony, DeAnna, and Shawn were like extended children — young people whose lives he touched and influenced over the years. He wasn’t a fan of flying, but we made many road trips together — especially down South to visit his brothers and sisters. Maurice was the eldest child of Morris Sr. and Mamie Winston. He is preceded in death by his brothers Sam, Clarence, Robert, and his sister Lucy. He is survived by his sisters Barbara (in Philadelphia), Diane, Connie, and Patricia (in Lanett, Alabama), the place where he — Morris Jr. (called “Maurice” by me — and that’s a story in itself!) — was born 91 years ago. We also traveled often to St. Petersburg, Florida to visit my side of the family. He remained close with his brother-in-laws, Askia Aquil (Katurah)and Alonzo Favors (Uli), and he held a special bond with his niece Thembi and her children, Khafi and Nasif. He also shared connections with nieces and nephews in St. Petersburg, Detroit, Alabama, and beyond. He leaves behind a legacy of family dedication, strength, love, and humor. He is also mourned by his many cousins and friends. Maurice was a good neighbor and an active member of every community in which he lived. If there were bylaws to be known, trust me — he knew them and made sure you knew them too! He had a hand in keeping neighborhoods strong, homes maintained, and community bonds tight — especially on Kristy Lane, where he looked out for the entire Kristy Lane family. He held close friendships with Timmy (Shirley), Benji (Kay), Cliff and the Johnny, Clarissa, and Jabari Parker family. He loved getting daily texts from Cynthia Moore — all who meant the world to him. We would also like to take a moment to acknowledge a dear devoted friend/brother Robert Moss. Robert’s unwavering support, care, kindness, and enduring patience did not go unnoticed. He faithfully sat by his friend’s side each day at the hospital and continued that same commitment throughout his hospice journey. In fact, we joked, that Robert worked a daily shift Monday through Friday from 3:30 PM until 7:00 PM. Out of all those days, he was only absent twice and just like his friend Maurice, he was written up. Maurice Winston was a giant of a man. He loved people and would talk to anyone he crossed paths with — whether in the grocery store, at the lottery machine, the casino, or on one of his many daily walks (which he continued until just 12 months ago when he fell ill). Everyone who knew Maurice has a funny story to tell about their interaction with him. Maurice, we did it. We loved each other — through sickness and health, for better or worse — just as we vowed, ‘til death did us part. You will forever be in my heart. I love you. – Barbara

Morris Winston Jr.

June 5, 1934 - February 28, 2026