William John Morrison

Lt. Colonel (USAF Ret.) William J. Morrison, 81 of Williamsburg, passed away in his home surrounded by loved ones on Thursday September 11, 2014. He was born in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, the son of Frank and Margaret Morrison. He had a Bachelor Degree in Business from Duquesne University. He served in the U. S. Air Force from 1954 to 1975 as a B-47 and B-52 Navigator and Bombardier with the Strategic Air Command as well as Launch Officer and Combat Crew Commander with the Strategic Missile Wing. He served six tours in Vietnam, flew 234 combat missions and received numerous awards and commendations, including the Distinguished Flying Cross. After retirement from the Air Force he enjoyed spending time with his numerous hobbies. His enthusiasm for astronomy began with his Navigator training and he enjoyed exploring the stars with his children using his six foot telescope. He has a star named after him that is listed in the International Star Registry. His love for photography earned him numerous ribbons in photo contests and several of his photos have been used on magazine covers. He was an accomplished saxophonist and enjoyed playing in Big Bands and Swing Bands from his teens until his early 70’s. He played in numerous venues in the Tidewater area with “Dick Crist and the Sounds of Swing” as well as provided entertainment for several Williamsburg Assisted Living Facilities. He was preceded in death by his loving wife of 54 years, Mary Ann Morrison. He leaves behind his daughter, Patricia A. Morrison of Williamsburg, VA; his son and his wife, William C. and Vicky Morrison of Atlanta, GA; and his granddaughter Lyra Morrison of Atlanta, GA. His funeral Mass will be celebrated Friday September 19, 2014 at 9:00 AM at the St. Bede Catholic Church located at 3686 Ironbound Rd., Williamsburg, VA 23188 with a reception at the church following the Mass. Interment services, with full military honors, will take place at Arlington National Cemetery at a later date. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be given to Living Our Mission St. Bede Capital Campaign. Arrangements by Nelsen Funeral Home. On-line condolences may be registered at www.nelsenwilliamsburg.com.