Jerry Ritchie Morgan

He will be remembered for his quick wit and dry humor, always there to put a smile where there was once a frown. He never let you wallow in self-pity for long. Though he put on a grumpy demeanor, he was as cuddly as a well-worn teddy bear. He was always there to lend a hand and caring heart when friend or family was in need.

Jerry was born February 24, 1951, in East Prairie, MO, to the late Roy Lee and Arena Morgan.

Jerry served his country honorably in the United States Navy from 1969 to 1973 on the aircraft carrier USS Enterprise as an Aviation Ordnance Petty Officer, completing two tours of service in Vietnam.

Jerry retired from the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation over six years ago and settled in Reedley, CA, with his wife of 42 years, Shielah Diane Morgan.

He is survived by his brothers, James Morgan of California, and Jack Morgan of Lilbourn, MO. Also surviving is one son, Neil Stuart Morgan of Reedley.

In addition to his parents, Jerry was preceded in death by one son, Nathan Ryan Morgan; two brothers, John Morgan and Roy Lee Morgan; and four sisters, Maxine Morgan, Mitzi Boss, Mary Bornhauser and Reba Lu Owens.

Funeral services were held Friday, July 14, 2017, at the Reedley Cemetery in Reedley, CA. The Rev. Mickey Brooke of Bakersfield, CA, officiated. Full military honors were provided by the local honor guard.