The community of Red Bluff, California, is mourning the loss of Delores K. Metcalf Morrell, affectionately known as “Dee,” who passed away peacefully on December 14, 2025. She was 82 years old. Born on August 3, 1943, in Vallejo, California, Dee’s life was marked by her dedication to education and her loving family.
Dee’s early life was shaped by her parents’ separation when she was just three years old. Her mother, Irene Dickens, later married Claude Metcalf, who played a significant role in Dee’s upbringing. During her high school years, Dee legally changed her surname to Metcalf, reflecting her close relationship with Claude. After the family relocated to Arkansas, Dee graduated from Lamar High School in 1961 and earned her degree from the University of the Ozarks in 1965.
Her teaching career began shortly after, when she took on the role of English teacher at Booneville High School. Dee spent three years there before joining Red Bluff Union High School in 1968, where she taught for 12 years and served as the yearbook advisor. Throughout her teaching tenure, Dee was active in local vocal groups and choirs, pursuits she had cherished since her college days. She was also a long-standing member of the Fitzhugh Society, a literary group that has been influential in the Red Bluff and Tehama County area since the 1880s.
In June 1981, Dee met R. Barry Morrell, and they married on June 27, 1987. Their union brought joy and a daughter, Megan Rene’, followed by a granddaughter, Morgan Ashley Lush.
Tragedy struck in June 1990 when Dee was involved in a serious head-on collision with a drunk driver, resulting in significant injuries, including brain trauma and damage to her right leg. After a lengthy recovery period in intensive care and rehabilitation, Dee returned to teaching but faced challenges due to her injuries. This led her to a new role as the Director of the Independent Study Program at Red Bluff Union High School, a position she held until her retirement in 2000. Her contributions to education were recognized in 1998 when she was honored as the California Independent Study Teacher of the Year.
Following her retirement, Dee was invited to establish the Independent Study Program for the Yuba City Charter School, where she continued to work until 2011. Travel became a passion for Dee and Barry, as they explored various destinations, both domestically and internationally, including extended trips across the United States and journeys to Europe and the Middle East.
Despite enjoying a fulfilling life, Dee faced health challenges due to the long-term effects of her accident. In 2025, she suffered two severe falls, resulting in a broken pelvis and hip, which significantly impacted her health. Seeking support, Dee and Barry moved to Arizona to be closer to their daughter and granddaughter. After enduring these setbacks, Dee passed away after an eight-month decline in health.
Dee is survived by her husband, R. Barry Morrell; her daughter, Megan Rene’; and her granddaughter, Morgan Ashley. She also leaves behind her brother, Richard Metcalf, and his wife Sharon; her sister-in-law, Lynn Swendiman, and her husband George; as well as numerous nieces and nephews across the country.
A Celebration of Life is scheduled for March 15, 2026, at the Red Bluff Community Center from 11:00 a.m. to approximately 1:00 p.m. Dee’s legacy as a dedicated educator and beloved family member will be remembered fondly by all who knew her.
