Molly Grace Morris was a brave, hilarious, sweet, silly, and joyful 8 year-old who defied the odds and brought infectious energy and love to any room she entered. Molly danced and pranked her way through life, and sparked laughter from anyone who had the distinct honor of meeting her. As a cheetah-loving third grader at St. Monica Academy, Molly touched the lives of countless friends, teachers, and families. Whether she was giving “snake squeeze” hugs to friends on the playground or spinning and jumping at dance class or baking key lime pie at cooking class, she was doing it all with a vibrant energy rivaled by few. This was especially true when her loud and boisterous yet charismatic, Texas accented alter ego Larry showed up on the scene, which could be at any given hilarious moment.
Molly was born on August 12, 2014 (exactly one week late which would be an arrival in true Molly style) to parents Erin and Jon. Throughout her life, Molly got to experience all the fun and special things a child should. Most importantly, she got to do it all with her best friend and sister, Annie, by her side. Together, the Morris Family enjoyed life to its fullest. It was in this experiencing life to its fullest that one would say Molly possessed a larger than life personality. At home with Annie, her loving cousins, and friends, was where Molly’s star shined brightest. Her best memories and lifelong bonds were formed during activities such as block parties, sports, blow up pools, biking up and down Berwyn Ave, and swimming at the pool. These were just a few childhood moments among the countless that made Molly’s life magical.
In May of 2021, Molly was diagnosed with a rare childhood kidney cancer: Stage 4 Diffuse Anaplastic Wilms’ Tumor. While cancer may have picked the fight, it was always Molly’s goal to end it.
Under special care from her team at Lurie Children’s Hospital, Molly underwent an aggressive treatment plan that included multiple surgeries, more than a year of chemotherapy, 32 radiation sessions, and ultimately a stem cell transplant. In November of 2022, Molly rang the bell at Lurie in true fierce Molly fashion, signifying the end of treatment accompanied by clear scans, while her family watched in awe. However, on January 9th 2023, Molly and family received the heartbreaking news that Molly's cancer had returned.
For nearly two years, Molly endured more pain than any child should ever have to face, yet she remained incredibly brave. Our heroic champion fought in her best Molly Grace warrior fashion until the bitter end. On February 8, 2023, heaven gained an angel in Molly, the feisty fighter, who passed away peacefully with her family by her side.
Molly is survived by her loving parents, Jon and Erin; her amazing sister, Annie; silly puppy, Lily; grandparents, Jerry Sheehan and Patricia Sheehan, and Joe Morris; uncles, Patrick Sheehan (Jillian), Jeremy Morris; aunts Colleen Beyer; Matt Blomstrand (Amber), Russell Blomstrand (Sarah – Aunty Sparkles), Stephen (Kirsten), Kelly (Christopher) Kimberly Blomstrand, Sam Benoit; special cousins, Shannon, Ryan, Connor, Lanie, Mary Claire, Eloise, Mark, Bobby and Jake. A visitation will be held at Cumberland Chapels, on Thursday, Feb. 16, from 1-8 p.m. at 8300 W Lawrence, Norridge IL. Her celebration of life will be Friday, Feb. 17, at 11am at St. Monica Church, 5136 N Nottingham Ave, Chicago IL
In memory of Molly, the Morris Family asks to keep the spirit of Molly alive. Live like Molly did. Enjoy dancing and pranking through life. Show your silly side. Wear your cheetah print. Show up for others in their time of need, and ensure no one - child or family - ever fights alone. Remember that cancer may pick the fight, but in Molly’s name, one day we will end it for good. #NoGiveUpInUs
