Obituary of Charles Morrissey

Morrissey, Charles F. “Charlie” of Falls Church, VA died peacefully at home on April 4, 2012. At the time of his death, Charlie was surrounded by family and friends. Diagnosed with cancer in December, Charlie fought a gallant and courageous fight. He never quit and he never gave up. Indeed, just two weeks ago, Charlie told one of his brothers, “How can I give up, I believe in miracles and a cure could be just around the corner.” Throughout his noble battle, Charlie never complained and, instead, expressed heartfelt concern for others. Charlie leaves behind his wife, Yvonne Stevenson Morrissey and an 8 month old son, John Daniel. Additionally, Charlie is survived by his father, Dr. William F. Morrissey and his wife Sylvia, four siblings, Bill, Joe, Jane and Elizabeth, and a host of cousins, nieces and nephews. Charlie is pre-deceased by his mother, Jean Noel Morrissey and younger brother, John. Charlie attended St. Stephens and Thomas Jefferson High School in Annandale, Virginia. Throughout his adult life, Charlie worked as a carpenter – and a very, very good one! Charlie loved the outdoors and nothing gave him as much pleasure as riding his motorcycle and spending time with his wife Vonnie, his son John, and beloved dog “Bear”. While Charlie’s health may have been failing these fast pew months, his indomitable spirit and sense of humor remained strong. In fact, on one of his very last days outdoors, his brother maneuvered his wheelchair down a steep street while, at the same time, riding on the back of the wheelchair. As the wheelchair careened recklessly down the center of the street towards an ominous speed bump, Charlie quipped, “Joe, you’re going to kill us both.” Finally, a special thanks to Charlie’s huge circle of friends and supporters who, for the last four months, stood resolutely by his side. Day and night, they prayed, laughed, and even sang with Charlie. Per Charlie’s special request, a cookout celebrating his life will be held at his nephew’s house at 5:00 p.m. on April 14, 2012. A memorial fund has been established to provide for Charlie’s son’s future education. Contributions may be made to the John D. Morrissey Education Fund #6373822, c/o Navy Federal Credit Union, 820 Follin Lane Vienna, Virginia 22180. Charlie, we love you and you will be missed.