By Rev. Tricia Thomas, 2nd Episcopal District
There are lives that leave footprints on the sands of time, and there are lives that leave echoes in eternity. Presiding Elder Chester W. Morris, affectionately known as the “Honey Child” Preacher, belongs to the latter. For 56 years, he has walked faithfully in the vineyard of the Lord, shepherding congregations, mentoring leaders, and uplifting communities with a heart full of love, joy, and unshakable faith.
From his first appointment as a 20-year-old pastor to decades of leadership as Presiding Elder of the Norfolk/Eastern Shore District, Elder Morris has lived by 2 Corinthians 5:7: “For we walk by faith, not by sight.” His ministry has been a testament to trusting God’s timing, seeing beyond circumstance, and believing the promises of the Almighty. He has led with courage, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to the people God placed in his care.
During his 31-year tenure at New Allen Memorial AME Church in Franktown, Virginia, Elder Morris witnessed young people grow in faith, step into leadership, and serve the Lord with dedication and joy. “They were young then, now they are older and have never forgotten what they call ‘the good old days’ at New Allen,” he recalls. Together, they traveled—two Greyhound or Trailway buses full of eager hearts—ministering in churches across denominations and states, spreading the gospel, and sowing seeds of hope that continue to flourish.
His ministry extended far beyond the walls of the church. Through service with the YMCA, NAACP, Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, and countless local initiatives, Elder Morris has embodied Matthew 25:40: “Truly, I say to you, as you did it to one of the least of these my brothers, you did it to me.” By God’s grace, he has witnessed miracles in transformed lives, healed families, and strengthened communities, always pointing the glory back to God.
Elder Morris’s joy and hope have been contagious. His beloved expressions such as “How Sweet It Is” and “Peace, Love, and Happiness” have lifted spirits, brightened gatherings, and reminded all who know him that ministry is as much about love and encouragement as it is about teaching and leadership.
As he steps into retirement, his prayer for future pastors and leaders is simple yet profound: “I pray that pastors and leaders will experience peace, love, and happiness within the heart, soul, and mind in doing the will of God. Then one day the Architect and Prime Mover of the Universe will say, ‘You fought a good fight; well done thou good and faithful servant.’”
The public is invited to honor Presiding Elder Morris on Saturday, April 11, 2026, at 1 PM at Bethel AME Church, 2521 N. Armistead Avenue, Hampton, VA 23666, under the pastoral leadership of the Rev. Andre’ Jefferson, Sr. A souvenir journal will be presented for Elder Morris’s archives; congratulatory ads may be purchased—full page $100, half page $50—camera ready, by March 15, 2026. Electronic gifts are welcome via Cash App ($nesdame), Givelify, or by mailing checks to P.O. Box 541, Eastville, VA 23347. Video messages (max 2 minutes) and congratulatory ads may be sent to revandre1@aol.com by March 15.
Presiding Elder Chester W. Morris leaves a legacy that cannot be measured in years or titles, but in lives touched, hearts encouraged, and communities strengthened. Truly, there is only one Chester W. Morris, and we thank God for him.
