Dante Edwards-Morrison: A Passion for Helping Those in Need

Dante Edwards-Morrison was a son, a brother, a friend, a co-worker, a caregiver, who was dedicated to helping family, friends, and those in need. Most Americans are aware of the unique challenges and pressures that young black men face in society. It is one of the main reasons why Dante’s mother, the Honorable Caroline Edwards-Morrison, always stressed family, education, and spirituality as a solid foundation for each of her three son’s upbringings.

Dante’s life was a testament to his selflessness and dedication. It was not defined by the numbers on a paycheck but by the countless smiles he brought to the faces of the developmentally disabled individuals he served. His commitment to this often-overlooked population was a shining example of his compassion and humility, inspiring all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Likewise, his life is not defined by its unfortunate end, but by each hand he held, each person he embraced, and every task he undertook both in his personal life and while working at Heritage Christian Services – an organization dedicated to helping those with learning and developmental disabilities. At the time of his death, Dante was in the process of continuing his advocacy for mental health and work with developmentally disabled individuals and had just accepted a position with the New York State Office for People with Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD).

In his personal life, Dante was a man of many passions. He was an avid enthusiast of all things space-related, marveling at the discovery of new galaxies and the resiliency of astronauts. He was a music lover, finding inspiration and relaxation in a wide range of genres, from old-school classics to contemporary artists. An avid collector of athletic sneakers, Dante appreciated each carefully chosen pair for their design, artwork, and construction. He was an active and present father to his four young children.

Dante Edwards-Morrison was also a son who, during his formative years, admired his father’s work as a painting and building contractor and went on to work in his father’s construction business in multiple roles as both a laborer and a foreman during his summer breaks from college. He was eager to work by his father’s side and offered marketing ideas to help grow the family business. He was a very fast learner and took pleasure in learning valuable skills like installing ceramic tile walls and floors, soffit, drywall, painting, and basic carpentry.

Dante, the middle son of his mother, ultimately followed her lead – choosing a career in public service over private ambitions. His dedication to the developmentally disabled was likely sparked by his mother’s inspirational journey from foster child and teenage mother to prosecutor, and then to judge.

While the trajectory of Dante Edwards-Morrison’s life as a dedicated professional with a passion for helping others had already extended beyond his circle of family and friends, we pause to consider his legacy as will be told by one person after another who genuinely knew him and whose lives, he had a positive influence on. He is greatly missed by the individuals he served, his children, family and the multitude of friends who loved him.