The community is mourning the loss of Delores K. Metcalf Morrell, affectionately known as “Dee,” who passed away on December 14, 2025, at the age of 82. Born on August 3, 1943, in Vallejo, California, Dee left a lasting impact on her family, friends, and students throughout her extensive career in education.
Dee experienced a challenging childhood when her parents, Irene and Charles Dickens, separated when she was just three years old. A year later, her mother married Claude Metcalf, who played a significant role in her upbringing. Dee legally changed her last name to Metcalf during high school, signifying her close bond with her stepfather.
After graduating from Lamar High School in 1961, Dee pursued higher education at the University of the Ozarks in Clarksville, Arkansas, where she earned her degree in 1965. Her teaching career began the same year at Booneville High School, where she taught English for three years before moving to Red Bluff Union High School in 1968. Over her 12 years there, she not only taught English but also served as the yearbook advisor, showcasing her commitment to her students and community.
In addition to her teaching, Dee was passionate about music, participating in various vocal groups and choirs. She became an active member of the Fitzhugh Society, a local literary group in Red Bluff, which she cherished for over 45 years.
Dee’s life took a pivotal turn when she met R. Barry Morrell in June 1981. The couple married on June 27, 1987, and together they welcomed their daughter, Megan Rene’, and later a granddaughter, Morgan Ashley Lush.
In June 1990, Dee faced a life-altering event when she was involved in a severe car accident caused by a drunk driver. The incident resulted in serious injuries, including traumatic brain injury and leg damage, leading to a year away from teaching. Despite these challenges, Dee returned to education and became the Director of the Independent Study Program at Red Bluff Union High School, a position she held until her retirement in 2000. Her dedication earned her recognition as the California Independent Study Teacher of the Year in 1998.
Following her retirement, Dee continued to contribute to education by establishing the Independent Study Program for the Yuba City Charter School, where she worked until 2011. This commitment to education reflected her passion for helping students achieve their goals.
Dee and Barry enjoyed an active retirement, traveling across the United States in their trailer and taking numerous trips abroad, including cruises and visits to Europe and the Middle East. Their travels created cherished memories, but about four years ago, the long-term effects of Dee’s accident began to resurface, leading to cognitive decline.
In 2025, Dee suffered two serious falls that resulted in a broken pelvis and hip, significantly affecting her health. The couple relocated to Arizona to be closer to family, particularly their daughter and granddaughter. Dee lived for approximately eight months following her second fall before passing peacefully in Anthem, Arizona.
Dee leaves behind her husband, R. Barry Morrell; daughter, Megan Rene’ Lush; granddaughter, Morgan Ashley Lush; brother, Richard Metcalf; sister-in-law, Lynn Swendiman; and numerous nieces and nephews across the country. Her legacy also includes a wide circle of friends, including notable figures such as Kate Whitmore, Sue Williams, and the remaining “Amigos,” Jean Hanson and Nancy Hickson.
A Celebration of Life is scheduled for March 15, 2026, at the Red Bluff Community Center from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Friends and family are invited to honor Dee’s memory during this gathering, reflecting on her vibrant spirit and the many lives she touched throughout her journey.
