Colonel Jack Elder US ARMY (RET)

On February 25, 2022, Jack Elder Morgan passed away. Born in Warner, OK on March 3, 1936, to Zachary Taylor and Alma Irene Swaffar Morgan, Jack spent his youth throughout Oklahoma, as his father worked as a county soil conservation agent. At Muskogee High School, he pursued his interests with church, Future Farmers of America, and especially music with the marching band. Following high school, he studied Animal Husbandry at Oklahoma A&M and spent summers working for cattle ranches in Missouri and Colorado. Jack met his future wife, Shirley, through extended family as they grew up, and their romance blossomed during college. Married in 1958, they devoted the last 63 years to each other.

Jack began his military career with Basic Training in the U.S. Army, quickly applying for Officer Candidate School. While on active duty, he completed his bachelors and masters degrees through hours of night and weekend classes. During his 28-year career in Air Defense, he served in staff and command positions, including as a Senior Liaison Officer with the German General Army office in Cologne. He was awarded the Legion of Merit, Bronze Star, and numerous other awards and commendations. He completed his military service with the Recruiting Command on Ft. Sam Houston.

After his service career, he truly made San Antonio home. Through a second career as VP with Alamo Pavers, he came to know the citys streets, neighborhoods, and attractions. Membership in the San Antonio Liederkranz introduced him to another side of the history and culture of this diverse city. He found great enjoyment in pursuing his passion for music as an active member of this mens choir for 30 years, serving as president for two years. Growing up in the Methodist faith and shaped by Methodist Youth Fellowship, he was a member of Coker United Methodist Church. He continued challenging himself intellectually, taking courses offered by the ALIR program. He enjoyed travelling, gardening, and applying his handiwork to home projects.

Jack will be remembered for his optimistic outlook. He was driven to do what he considered the right thing, even if it was hard. Yet, he carried himself with immense kindness and patience. His willingness to do the work to reach the desired outcome was admired, and many depended on him to provide leadership and perseverance in carrying ideas to fruition.

Jack is survived by his wife, Shirley; his children, Meda Sutton (Alan), Donna Morgan, John Morgan (Christie), and Anne Llewellyn (Bill); his grandchildren, Taylor Sutton, Sarah Hickman (Justin), Anna Cook (John), Adam Morgan, Emily Bowers, Caroline Bowers, Rachel Llewellyn, Lauren Llewellyn, and his great grandson, Bennett Cook. He was preceded in death by his parents, sister Gwendolyn Marlin, and brother Glen Morgan.

Funeral services are April 1st at 11am, Coker United Methodist Church, with a reception in Wesley Hall. Military Honors at 2pm at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to American Cancer Society.