Willa Dean Moody Morris, age 89, of Opp, Alabama, passed away peacefully on April 25, 2026. She was born June 20, 1936, in Rose Hill, Alabama, to the late Henry and Allie Mae Moody.

Dean was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 67 years, Lamar Morris; her cherished daughter, Rhonda Morris DuBose; and her siblings, Pete Moody, Guy Moody, Flaye Moody Whisonant, Dwain Moody, Sr., Annette Moody Ham, Hollon Moody, and Rothel Moody, Sr.

She is survived by her loving daughter, Joan Morris Johnson (John), and was a proud and devoted grandmother to Whitney Salyer (Greg) of Los Angeles, California; Brittany Matthews (Bryan) of Mathews, Alabama; Jayme DuBose (Brittany) of San Antonio, Texas; and Zane Johnson (Tessa) of Brantley, Alabama. She was blessed with great-grandchildren Sam Matthews, Brylee DuBose, Hannah Matthews, Everlee DuBose, Hazel DuBose, and Walker Johnson, each of whom brought her immense joy and pride. In addition, she is survived by her sister-in-law, Janice Moody and several nieces and nephews.

Dean dedicated much of her life to education, serving as a high school English teacher at Opp High School before continuing her career as a librarian at Opp Middle School for many years. She had a deep love for learning and literature, and she inspired countless students with her kindness, patience, and passion for education.

A woman of strong faith, Dean was a devoted member of Memorial United Methodist Church over 60 years. She faithfully served in the church choir and generously gave her time teaching both children’s and adult Sunday school classes. She recently became a member of Opp’s First Methodist Church. Her faith was evident in the way she lived her life—with grace, compassion, and a servant’s heart.

Dean will be remembered for her warmth, strength, and unwavering love for her family. She found her greatest happiness in time spent with those she loved, and her legacy lives on in the generations she nurtured and the many lives she touched.

A Celebration of Life service will be held at Wyatt Funeral Home on Tuesday, April 28, 2026, at 2:00 PM, with visitation for family and friends beginning at 1:00 PM. Graveside services will follow in Peaceful Acres Memorial Gardens.

In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made to First Methodist Church of Opp, Alabama.

Pallbearers will be Bryan Matthews, Jayme DuBose, Zane Johnson, Rothel Moody, Jr., Tony Moody, and Jerry Weeks.