James McNeal Morgan, 98, passed on March 31, 2025. Hattie Ann Bartee Morgan, 95, passed 12 days later on April 12, 2025. They walked through life for 77 years and are survived by Patricia A. Morgan and Marion E. Morgan (Kathy), an extended family of nieces, nephews, and their children.
A celebration of their lives will be held on Saturday, April 26, at Grace Episcopal Church beginning at 3 PM with the Reverend Danielle Thompson officiating. The family will receive relatives and friends one hour prior to the church service.
At 17, Jim enlisted in the Navy near the end of World War II. After completing his Navy obligation, he enlisted in the Air Force during the Korean War where he worked on radar, mechanical, and electronic systems. He later joined the Air Force Reserves during the Cold War years.
Hattie and Jim were married in June 1948. They shared a wonderful journey together including living overseas in Germany and in 1955 moving to Sheffield, Alabama. Jim received his degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Alabama which led to employment with Reynolds Metals, Browns Ferry, and TVA Power Service Shops.
They became members of Grace Episcopal Church and participated in many church activities. Hattie and Jim loved to sing and joined the church choir, being active members for several years. Hattie was responsible for the Altar Guild for over three decades, and taught Sunday School. Jim served on the Vestry Board, was a consultant for the new church construction, and designed the covered walkway. He and Hattie were among those who helped get the new pipe organ up and running.
They were the best parents and always wanted to make a difference.
Hattie was a loving and supportive mother and partner. She participated in PTA, was a Girl Scout Leader, and volunteered with the Red Cross Bloodmobile. Hattie also volunteered as a Pink Lady at Helen Keller Hospital accruing over 5000 volunteer hours. She was an incredible cook, avid reader, and loved to garden, inspiring her daughters to do the same.
After retirement, Jim‘s love of music flourished. He joined the Shoals Symphony and later, the Shoals Community Band. He played the tuba and enjoyed music ranging from jazz to classical. Hattie and Jim also delivered Meals on Wheels for over a decade, helping those in need. Jim was an avid reader all of his life, and was always learning and making things. He was current with new ideas including new technologies and inventions. He also enjoyed cooking new recipes.
The last few years have required the help of many wonderful and caring health professionals including Doctors, Nurse Practitioners, Nurses, and supporting staff. Sincere appreciation goes to Keller Home Care; North Alabama Medical Center and ER, including the fourth and fifth floors; Summit Rehabilitation-Mitchell Hollingsworth; and Long Term Acute Care Huntsville Hospital. From the depths of our hearts, we thank you all for the caring support you provided to our parents in their hours of greatest need.
Please visit morrisonfuneralhomes.com to leave tributes and condolences for the family.
