William Morris Denning

William Morris Denning, the oldest of eight children, was born on July 8, 1935, in Scottsville, Kentucky to the late Rupert and Lillie Mae Gaines-Denning. The family would soon move and make their home in Indianapolis, Indiana.

"Morris" as he was affectionately known as, received his education in the Indianapolis Public Schools.

William was a strong believer in the will of God; he was baptized and a member of New Zion Tabernacle under the leadership of Bishop Donald Thomas. He later joined Faith Tabernacle Praise and Worship Center under the leadership of Pastor Jeffrey Brown Sr., where he was a member for over 10 years.

He was united in Holy Matrimony to Paulette Taylor and to this union, ten children were born.

William was employed at Bemis Bag Co. from 1968 to 1984. After the closure of Bemis Bag Co., he was employed with the Indianapolis Public Library, from where he would later retire. In May 2000, William received the Helen L. Norris Distinguished Service Award for his commitment, diligence and "aura of peace" in the workplace at the library.

A strong man, "Morris" was a man of class and dignity. Enduring the good and the bad in life, he remained determined and alert. "Morris" had a love of clothes, shoes and hats. He loved to dress! He also had a love for music and tap dancing, but his greatest joy was bowling and golfing, where he received several awards for his performance in both.

On June 24, 2025, 14 days away from his 90th birthday, William Morris Denning entered eternal life. JOB WELL DONE!!

He was met in Heaven by his loving wife, Paulette Denning; children: Narvell, David A., Steven L. and Babygirl Denning; brothers, Richard and Jerry Denning; sisters, Rosie Benedict and Martha Richardson; and four grandchildren.

He leaves to cherish his memory: sons, Tony M. Denning (Mae)and Gary Denning; daughters: Camiela Spivey (Eugene), Connie A. Denning, Patricia L. Denning, Marcie Morris and Paula Odunaiya (Olufemi); brother, Arthur Denning; sisters: Shirley Roberts, Jeanette Denning and Linda Denning; three sisters in-law; a brother in-law; thirty grandchildren, forty-five great grandchildren and twenty-two great-great-grandchildren; a host of loving family and friends.

William was loved and will be deeply missed by all!

"Your spirit and the memories will live on FOREVER!"