Pacers Sports & Entertainment (PS&E) announced that their vice chairman Jim Morris died on July 12. Morris was 81 years old.
“Jim’s life was a testament to public service and dedication to making our city and state a better place,” owner of PS&E Herbert Simon said in a statement. “He wasn’t just a leader, he was family … To his very last day, he was hard at work bringing people together to help those most in need and make our city and our state stronger, more civil, and more united. No one loved Indiana and Indianapolis more than Jim.”
Morris, a graduate of Indiana University with a master’s degree from Butler University, joined P&SE in 2007 after a distinguished career in government, business and philanthropy.
Subsequently, Morris began his career with American Fletcher National Bank before becoming chief of staff to Indianapolis Mayor Richard G. Lugar in the late 1960s and early 1970s. He later joined the Lilly Endowment, ultimately becoming the organization’s president.
Morris’ leadership extended beyond Indiana. He served as chairman and CEO of IWC Resources Corporation and Indianapolis Water Company for 13 years. Driven by a passion for helping others, Morris spent his later years with the United Nations World Food Programme as Executive Director, leading the fight against hunger around the globe.
Mayor of Indianapolis Joe Hogsett was also saddened by Morris’ passing.
“Jim’s outsized impact on Indianapolis and our state will be felt for decades to come,” Hogsett said in a statement. “He helped to establish the Indiana Sports Corp., shaping the sports strategy that laid the foundation for our recent record-breaking successes as a host city. He raised funds for pivotal projects like the Indianapolis Zoo and the Hoosier Dome. His leadership at Pacers Sports & Entertainment only solidified his place as a pillar of our community.”
Morris’ dedication to his community was evident in his numerous leadership roles. He served on the boards of both Indiana University and Indiana State University and held positions with UNICEF, the Boy Scouts of America, the United States Olympic Committee and the Indianapolis Motor Speedway.
An avid sports fan, Morris was a constant presence at Gainbridge Fieldhouse, cheering on the Indiana Pacers and Indiana Fever.
Morris’ legacy extends far beyond his accomplishments. He was a tireless advocate for Indiana, a champion for children, and a devoted friend and mentor.
“Jim will be sorely missed by all of us, and we will keep him and his family in our prayers now and always,” Simon said.
Morris received 17 honorary doctorates, the Sachem Award from Indiana Governor Eric Holcomb in 2021 and the Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award from President Barack Obama in 2016.
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