Morris Y. Jessop

Pinesdale - Morris Yeates Jessop, 80, died peacefully in his home on July 30th, after a long struggle with cancer. He passed from this life to the next surrounded by family.

Morris was born November 13, 1933 in Salt Lake City, Utah to Lyman and Maleta Jessop. First coming to the Bitterroot Valley in 1961, he knew this was where he wanted to live and moved his family to Pinesdale the following year. He was among the first pioneering residents and was a stabilizing presence and leader as the community grew. He had a true love for people and was very hospitable. Music was a large part of his life; he was a talented singer and musician and loved performing for the public as well as his children. All those who knew Morris will remember his inexhaustible sense of humor. He loved Montana and the life it offered. He hunted, camped, fished and worked hard in his community and the valley. Airplanes were also a frequent pastime of his and he enjoyed flying for 28 years.

His first foray into business after moving to Montana was Pines Construction which later evolved into J-5 Construction as his family grew. He also managed AB concrete for a time. Morris had an amazing work ethic and was a well-known business man in the valley for many years. He was blessed with good health and many guardian angels (though we suspect their turnover rate was above average). When he was unable to do the work he loved, he found a new hobby in auto body repair, especially exercising his talent in painting. He still put in 12 hour days until his cancer made it impossible. However, working and serving in his faith was his true passion. From his youth till his death he tirelessly and faithfully served, even after he could no longer get out of his bed. As his illness grew, so did his compassion and sweetness. He leaves behind a large and grieving family but also a beautiful example of humility and unwavering devotion to God and his fellowman.