Ike Morris, West Virginia Energy Titan and Philanthropist, Dies

Key points

• Ike Morris, founder of Waco Oil & Gas Co., died on October 19, 2026, as announced by his daughter, Shelly Morris Smith.
• Morris relocated to Glenville, West Virginia, in 1962 and incorporated his energy company in 1975, expanding into real estate, retail, and timber.
• The Morris family donated $5 million to Glenville State University in 2008 and funded the new Ike and Sue Morris Stadium, dedicated on September 3, 2026.
• Morris is survived by his wife of over 60 years, Sue, two children, four grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren.
• State leaders, including Gov. Patrick Morrisey and Sen. Jim Justice, praised his contributions to the state's economy and community.

Background

Morris was inducted into West Virginia University’s business school hall of fame in 2026. In 2018, he received The State Journal’s Lifetime Achievement Award. He was also named the 1994 West Virginia Oil & Gas Man of the Year. His wife, Sue Morris, was a 1965 Glenville State graduate and former chair of the college’s Board of Governors.

How outlets are covering it

WV MetroNews and My Buckhannon both confirm the core facts of his death and business legacy, but My Buckhannon provides more granular detail on his philanthropic impact, such as the specific $5 million gift in 2008 and the 2025 capital campaign for the health complex. Yahoo’s source was inaccessible due to a technical error, so no additional perspective could be synthesized from it. All available sources emphasize his quiet generosity and local impact in Gilmer County.

Why it matters

Morris’s death marks the end of an era for West Virginia’s independent energy sector. His business empire supported hundreds of local jobs, and his philanthropy reshaped the infrastructure of Glenville State University, ensuring the survival of its athletic and academic programs during economic downturns.

What to watch

Funeral arrangements are not yet complete, and the family has stated they will share details as they become available. The new Ike and Sue Morris Stadium, part of the Morris Family Health and Fitness Complex, will continue to serve the university and community.