Marie H. Morton

Marie Anette Harkless Morton passed away on April 4, 2026, at the age of 83. She was born on July 15, 1942, in Brookhaven, Mississippi, the loving daughter of a devoted Southern mother and a Methodist minister father.

During her adolescence, Marie’s family journeyed from Mississippi to Alabama, and eventually to Kentucky, where she would plant roots, build a life, and raise her family.

She graduated from Paducah Tilghman High School, where she was one of only four Black students. She later attended Kentucky State University and was actively involved in the Civil Rights Movement. Marie courageously participated in peaceful protests, including sit-ins at segregated diners that refused service to people of color. Though she witnessed and personally endured the harsh realities of racism, discrimination, and injustice, she met the world with unwavering dignity, compassion, and—above all—love.

Marie was devoted to her faith and community, playing piano for her church, Quinn Chapel, while living in Lexington Kentucky. Between the time she spent working at the VA and participating in her church, Marie built a loving home for three boys- Robert, Anthony, and Jeffrey Morton.

Marie dedicated over 30 years of service to the VA Hospital, where she built a respected and meaningful career. To some, she was known as “Ms. Marie”; to others, “Ree.” Her older grandchildren lovingly called her “Granny Ree,” while the younger ones knew her as “Ree Ree.” To her family—and many close friends—she was simply “Moms.” She had a remarkable gift for making everyone feel like family, always extending warmth, comfort, and belonging to all who crossed her path.

Her home at 964 DePorres Avenue was a place with love, laughter, incredible music and unforgettable meals—you were always welcome, and you always left full. Even after relocating from Kentucky to California due to declining health, she continued to create that same sense of home wherever she was. Despite all challenges, Thanksgiving remained her favorite holiday as well as her gift to her family. Before sitting down with a plate of her own, Marie watched with a smile as everyone enjoyed her food.

Marie was preceded in death by her mother, Nora Lee Nichols; her father, Jefferson L. Harkless; her brother, Jefferson L. Harkless Jr.; her sister, Delores Haliburton; her brother, Fredrick Harkless; and her son, Robert F. Morton III.

She leaves to cherish her memory her sons, Anthony Morton and Jeffrey Morton; her loving sister and best friend, Kay Wilhite; her daughters-in-law, Inge Morton and Gina Morton; her granddaughters, Lanesha Peacock, Raquel Morton, Ayla Morton, and Ava Morton; her grandsons, Nathaniel Holmes, Robert Morton IV, Maurice Morton, and Miles Morton; as well as a host of nieces, nephews, and beautiful great-grandchildren whom she loved deeply.

Acknowledgements:

The family extends heartfelt gratitude for the outpouring of love, prayers, and support from all who knew and loved our mother. Please know that every gesture is deeply felt and sincerely appreciated.

We would also like to express our profound thanks to her doctors and caregivers for their exceptional care, compassion, and dedication over the years. Because of you, we were blessed with more than ten additional years with our mother—a gift we will cherish forever. The kindness and dignity you showed her in her final days mean more to us than words can express.

Repast

At the conclusion of the service, the family and friends are invited to attend a small reception at:

Boccaccio’s Restaurant

32123 Lindero Canyon Road, #110

Westlake Village, CA