Obituary of James R. Morgan

How do you capture a great man’s life into one paragraph, one page, or one book? You cannot, so these thoughts are those from one point of view. For those that knew him, we hope you add these loving thoughts to your own experiences with him, to build a story that will keep him forever in your memory.

Jim Morgan, a beloved husband, father, and friend to all around him, passed away peacefully on March 20^th, 2024, surrounded by his loving family. His departure leaves a profound void in the hearts of those who knew him. He was 87 years old.

Born and raised in Rome, NY in 1937, Jim was the definition of hard work and kindness. He was born with nothing guaranteed for him but lived his life with an ambition to make more of himself. These qualities would shape him into the remarkable individual that he would become, admired by many.

Easily the most notable stop on his journey was after he enlisted in the Army, which placed him in Germany in the early 1960s. It was here he would meet his future wife, Elfriede Morgan (some may know as Sue). The two would fall in love and come back to the states after his deployment to start their life together. They came back to Rome where they were married in 1962. The love they shared cannot be overstated.

More people knew Jim through his work, building and plumbing his way through Central New York. While he started his career working as a general contractor, he found his calling in being a certified master plumber. He would often drive through Rome pointing at all of the houses in a street, stating that he plumbed each one.

His hard work would lead him to building a plumbing store, which Elfriede would run, but where he would often come in to get supplies, help a customer or two, enjoy the company of his family, and head off to the next job.

While he had passion for his work, Jim was a devoted family man. He shared a deep and enduring love with his wife of 61 years and together they raised five wonderful children. His family was his pride and joy, and he cherished every moment spent with them. Jim’s example of how to live and love was embedded deep into his family who spent countless nights at his home getting together for food, fun, and some incredibly competitive games of Uno.

In his leisure time (and while not helping someone out with a home repair) was spent on his hobbies. His first passion was playing his guitar and singing. You could often show up at the house in the middle of him serenading anyone nearby with a Randy Travis song. He also had a passion for woodworking, as shown by the carved ducks, carousel horses, and holiday décor that he loved to create and share with those around him.

 

Although Jim may no longer walk among us, his legacy of love, kindness, and hard work will endure forever in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know him. He leaves behind countless memories of a quick wit and a sly smile that made everyone laugh.

Jim is survived by his beautiful wife Elfriede, five children (Patricia, Mary Jane, Sandra, Heidi, and James), 12 grandchildren, and one great grandchild. A small ceremony with his family will be held in May. In lieu of flowers, please make any donations to the VA in support of other veterans in need.