Charles S. Morris, age 72, passed away unexpectedly at his home on January 23, 2025.
Born on March 3, 1952, in Detroit, Michigan, Charles was the son of Jane Schneider and Harold E. Morris. He spent his life between Michigan and California, where his curiosity, intellect, and creativity left an everlasting impression on those around him.
Charles earned a Bachelor’s degree in Astrophysics from Michigan State University in 1973 and a Master’s degree in Atmospheric Sciences from Purdue University in 1975. He began his career as an air pollution meteorologist and consultant before working for many years contributing to numerous space science projects at Jet Propulsion Laboratory. During his career, he earned several NASA Group Achievement Awards. The reflection of not only his profession, but passion, was proudly displayed his car’s license plate “COMET GY”. In recognition of his contributions to cometary astronomy, asteroid 3783 “Morris” was named in his honor.
Charles was also an award winning photographer. He cherished the many connections he made through his work and the artistry of capturing life’s moments. His love for the stars and photography led to meeting people of similar interests, and ultimately led to meeting the love of his life, wife, Carmelita Miranda. Together they owned and operated KSSP Photography. Among many accomplishments in photography, they were well known within the Fillmore community for taking care of the student’s yearbook and graduation photos. Charles also worked as a substitute teacher in Fillmore and Santa Paula, finding great fulfillment working with young people including those with special needs.
Charles is now reunited with Carmelita in the stars. He touched many lives through his work, his passions, and his quiet generosity, and he will be remembered with gratitude by all who shared in his journey.
A one year anniversary memorial and celebration of life will be held on January 25, 2026, from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. at the City of Fillmore Active Adult Center. There will be no burial. Charles’s ashes, along with Carmelita’s, will be taken to their final resting place in Hawaii.