Louise Holcombe Morris

Louise Holcombe Morris of Roanoke Virginia, age 72, passed away peacefully at home on June 21, 2026. Louise was born in Washington D.C., the youngest of three children. Her older brothers introduced her to whitewater kayaking when the sport was just starting in the United States, back when you had to build your own boat from fiberglass. With her characteristic determination and competitive spirit, Louise made the U.S. Olympic team at age 18 and competed in whitewater kayak slalom in the 1972 Olympics in Munich and the 1973 World Championships in Switzerland, earning a gold medal in the K-1 team event. Louise graduated from Pennsylvania State University and taught science and reading at the Summit School in Maryland, dedicating her career to teaching dyslexic children. Louise was happiest in nature–on a river, riding a bike, and in the woods with her family, dearest friends, and beloved husband, Chip Morris. She loved books, games, and deep conversations, and had the kindest heart, especially for anyone struggling. In her later years, she learned to play ice hockey and the trombone, joining Chip on the ice and in the Roanoke Valley Community Band. Louise had a deep personal faith, advising both herself and others in hardship to “give it to God.” She belonged to the Raleigh Court Presbyterian Church.

Louise is survived by her husband Chip Morris, her children Carolyn Dietz (Josh), Joshua Nichols (Tammy), Sarah Morris, Daniel Morris (Ashley), Benjamin Morris (Diana), and Andrew Morris, her grandchildren Taylor, John, Jacob, Diana, Caleb, Omri, Matthew, Marlowe, Arden, Rowan, and Hanna, her great-grandchildren Stetson and Waylon, and her brothers Norman Holcombe (Barbara) and Jim Holcombe (Donna). She is preceded in death by her parents Richard and Bethany Holcombe.

We appreciate the love and support of the Roanoke Parkinson Support Group of Virginia, Karis Care, Good Samaritan Hospice, RCPC women’s group, and Louise’s devoted friends and family. Louise was an inspiration, a rock, and a true joy. We loved her deeply.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, July 11th at Raleigh Court Presbyterian Church at 2:00 p.m. with a reception to follow in the fellowship hall.