Basilike Morris

Basilike "Bess" Morris (née Kilivry), age 97, passed away on August 12, 2025, in Mogadore, Ohio. Born on February 4, 1928, in Akron, Ohio, Bess lived a long and meaningful life rooted in faith, family, and service to others.

A devout member of the Greek Orthodox faith, Bess was an active parishioner at Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church in Akron for many years. She played a vital role in organizing the church's Annual Greek Festival and taught many young volunteers the art of traditional Greek pastry making—a skill she passed on with both pride and patience.

Her commitment to service extended beyond the church kitchen. For ten years, Bess served as treasurer of the Good Samaritans group, which provided monthly food distributions to those in need.

Since 1998, Bess was also a devoted member of the Philoptochos Society. Through this philanthropic organization, she contributed her time and talents to numerous charitable projects including pastry workshops, the school backpack program, and quilting initiatives. She lovingly crafted quilts and afghans for shut-ins, wounded soldiers, and newborns. She volunteered for the Hot Meal Luncheon until the age of 94.

In 2019, Bess received the Saint Photios Award for her contributions to the church.

Bess is survived by her daughter Georgia VanderArk; her son Robert Kilivris and his wife Diane; four grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; and one great-great grandson. She will be dearly missed.

She was preceded in death by her husband George Morris and parents Despina and Kleovoulos Kilivry who immigrated from Asia Minor Greece, her sister Katherine Schuman; and her brothers Spiro Kilivry and Anesti Kilivry.

Visitation will be 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM Wednesday, August 20, 2025 at Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church (129 South Union Street in Akron), where the funeral mass will immediately follow at 11:00 AM.  Interment Mount Peace Cemetery.  Arrangements entrusted to Adams Mason Funeral Home (330) 535-9186.