Maureen Dawn Morris, beloved mother, "Nanny" and friend, passed peacefully from this life into the loving arms of her Lord and Savior on February 12, 2023, surrounded by her loving family.  Born in Tacoma, WA on June 6, 1945 to Joseph and Dorothy Lynch, Maureen graduated from Stadium High School at the age of 16, and played 1 ^st Chair Clarinet for the Seattle Youth Symphony.  Married to H. Ken Austin for 22 years, the couple made their home in Puyallup, WA and together had three children. She joins at last her son, Joseph G. Austin, who preceded her in death in 1984 and her Irish love, Jack Morris, to whom she was married for 24 years, prior to his death in 2014.

Maureen enjoyed a successful career as a loan officer at WA State Bank and later, bank Vice President at Heritage Bank.  She found great satisfaction in recognizing the potential of young dreamers and entrepreneurs and extending opportunity to those whom other lenders had turned away.

A woman of steadfast faith, generosity of spirit and unwavering love for her family, Maureen led by example. She never knew a stranger and her life was a gift and a blessing to many. Giving to others was her greatest love language. Affectionately known as "Nanny" by her six grandchildren, she found sincere joy in celebrating their individual interests, passions and milestones, both great and small. Her Irish eyes, joyful laughter, guiding wisdom and the comfort of her extravagant love will be terribly missed. Though we grieve her profound absence, we rejoice that she is Home.

Surviving Maureen are her two adoring daughters, Karen Rowland-Johnson (Rob), Erica Sweet (Dennis), her sister, Caroline Bentley, and her six cherished grandchildren: Caleb Bartro, Joseph Sewall, Julia Sewall, Jack Rowland, Allison Force (Kolby), and Jenna Sweet.

A Celebration of Maureen's life will be held at 2p.m. on Saturday, March 18, 2023 at Puyallup Nazarene Church, 1026 7 ^th Ave. SW, Puyallup, WA.

A private graveside committal will be held at New Tacoma Cemetery.