Defino Remembers Dr. Sandra Morris

Dr. Sandra Morris as a loving friend and family member, and a passionate, strong and valued educator.

Defino Central Elementary's gym was packed last night, with a mix of sadness and smiles as the community came together to celebrate the life of the school's principal of 14 years.

Nicholas Camera, Defino's assistant principal and now lead administrator, remembered his former boss and friend with humourus stories of her ability to stay calm in the craziest of situations, and her contagious laugh.

"Her laugh was infectious," he said. "That's why the teachers never saw us, we were in the back room laughing together."

Teachers, students, staff, parents and friends approached the microphone to share their memories of Morris, many of which contained humor and smiles. Camera called the night a celebration, a moment to come together as a family and remember how Morris touched lives.

"Her recognition of our lives outside of the work place is what made her an outstanding employer," said one fifth grade teacher.

Members of the PTA announced they will dedicate a new school sign in Morris' memory, and in June will again write her favorite saying for all who pass on Rt. 79 to see; "Beach days are here again."

Jay Margolis of the child study team recalled Morris' natural ability to include children with special needs into the Defino family.

"Sandy Morris had heart. Miles and miles of heart," he said.

Olivia, a fifth grade student, said as she gets ready to leave Defino, she will look back on good memories with her principal.

"I'm so happy she could be with us for this time. We're really going to miss her."

Mayor Jon Hornik, who graduated from Defino as a child, said although Morris would have looked on the celebration as "a big fuss," it was a true tribute to her.

"For all of the people that came to this school that she made a home for, I say 'thank you' to her."

Morris was born in Brooklyn, NY, Dr. Morris was a resident of East Windsor most of her life. She was a graduate of Brooklyn College and Temple University.

Dr. Morris is survived by her husband, Kenneth H. Morris; two daughters and a son-in-law, Allison Barbosa, Jacqueline and Justin Stein; a sister, Fran Glickman, and two grandchildren, Matthew and Robert.

The family respectfully requests memorial contributions be offered to the Susan G. Komen for the Cure , P.O. Box 650309, Dallas,TX 75265.