Robert Crawley Morgan Sr.

September 15, 1933 – March 16, 2014

Bishop Robert C. Morgan of Vestavia Hills died at home Sunday, March 16, with members of his family close by. Bob grew up in the Ensley community of Birmingham, attended public schools, and received his undergraduate degree from Birmingham-Southern College. In preparation as a United Methodist minister, Bob completed the Master of Divinity degree at Candler School of Theology, Emory University. Across the years Bishop Morgan received honorary doctoral degrees from Birmingham-Southern and several other Methodist related schools. He served as chair of the Board of Trustees of Birmingham-Southern and vice-chair of Emory University Trustees.

Bob was a United Methodist pastor in Alabama for 25 years. After a decade as senior minister of Vestavia United Methodist Church, he was elected a Bishop of the Church in 1984. 1984-1992, Bob served as United Methodist Bishop of Mississippi, 1992-2000, of Kentucky. Bishop Morgan was a leader in the national and global United Methodist Church. He was active in retirement from 2000 on, teaching at his beloved Birmingham-Southern College with his students whom he adored. Bob was a compelling preacher and teacher, dynamic leader, and inspiring mentor of countless laity and clergy leaders. His writings on intelligent faith and servant lifestyle include LIFT HIGH THE CROSS and GUESS WHO’S COMING TO DINNER.

Bishop Morgan is survived by Martha Storey Morgan, his wife of fifty-five years; his four children, Lesli Morgan Blair (Hamilton), Carol Morgan Carmichael (Dan), Robert Morgan, Jr. (Amy), and Kenneth Morgan (Laurie). Bob was called Pooh by his nine grandchildren: Will and Jack Blair; Ben, Clint and Dillon Carmichael; Bobby and John Morgan; Andrew and Caroline Morgan. Nieces and nephews abound.

Services for Bishop Robert C. Morgan with be at Vestavia Hills United Methodist Church, Wednesday, March 19, at 11 am. Prior to the service 9 - 11, family will receive friends and guests. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests gifts to Vestavia Hills United Methodist Church, Birmingham-Southern College or Camp Sumatanga.