Bessie Morris Foundation on Facebook BMorrisFoundation on Instagram Subscribe to received Bessie Morris Foundation emails via Mailchimp

(323) 494-4005

Who Was Bessie Morris?

Bessie Morris moved from Austin, Texas to Los Angeles, where she was a single mother who raised 11 children. She later took in and raised her grandchildren, Ivory Freeman and five of her siblings, until her passing in 1998.

Ivory credits her grandmother for her success today — Bessie taught Ivory that if you work hard and believe in yourself, anything is possible. "She provided me opportunities that I would not likely had if she didn't take us in. She made sacrifices to provide for us. She was the strongest woman I know."

Bessie Morris was astute. She had the ability to read each child's unique personality and needs, and to form strong relationships built on those insights.

Ivory will be forever grateful for her grandmother's love, compassion, and wisdom. "Naming the foundation after her is a way I can honor her and continue her legacy. To this day, I reflect upon her teachings for inspiration. She is missed."

Bessie Morris