Donald Rupert Morgan

Don was born on June 16, 1935, in Union Mills, North Carolina, to the late Mollie Proctor Morgan and Lee Hobert Morgan. He was educated at Alexander Mills School. Don loved sports and lettered in basketball, baseball and football. He was also known for his practical jokes and his skill at calling square dances.

Following graduation, Don enlisted in the U.S. Air Force, where he worked in the Strategic Air Command as a mechanic on the B-52 in Alaska, Okinawa and North Carolina. Don loved the beach, and he and his Seymour Johnson Air Force buddies spent their time off at the North Carolina coast. When he returned home from Okinawa, Don taught his younger siblings and nieces to count in Japanese. His sister Delma remembers Don as a brother who brought her gifts from his work abroad and taught her to drive in his brand-new Buick Skylark.

On April 30, 1971, Don married the love of his life, Emmy Groves. They lived in Shelby, North Carolina, where they built a home and raised their son Michael. Don and Emmy so loved being parents and supporting Michael in his activities and interests. Don enjoyed his career as a fire fighter and driving for Carolina Freight.

Don and Emmy retired to Oak Island, Michael’s hometown, in 2019. They were thrilled to be closer to Michael and the three of them had so many happy family times at the beach.

In retirement, Don was able to spend more time on his many interesting hobbies, including gardening, collecting antique engines, serving as a Mason and making and selling ice cream. Most of all, Don loved and cared deeply for Emmy and Michael and his extended family and found joy in spending time with them and his friends. His family fondly remembers his smile, his laughter, his kindness to others and his zest for life.

Don is survived by his beloved Emmy. He was predeceased his dear son Michael Lee Morgan. He is survived by his sisters, Betty Morgan Bailey (Jake) and Delma Morgan Collins (Danny); a brother, Ivy Morgan (Doris); and a host of nieces, nephews, and friends. He was also predeceased by two sisters, Lois Morgan Moore (George “Bug”) and Dixie Morgan: and a brother, Hobert Morgan (Ida).

A celebration of Don’s life will be held on Wednesday, January 11 at 3 p.m. at Cape Fear Memorial Park Cemetery in Southport.

Memorials may be made to the Oak Island Masonic Lodge #758, 2408 East Oak Island Drive, Oak Island, North Carolina 28465.

Service arrangements are with Peacock, Newman & White, 1411 North Howe Street, Southport, North Carolina (910-457-6944).

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.peacocknewmanwhite.com for the Morgan family.

Peacock - Newnam & White Funeral and Cremation Service, Southport, North Carolina.