Rebecca Jean Morley

Rebecca J. Morley of Tucson, Arizona, went to be with her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on Saturday, August 8, 2026, at the age of 83. She was born in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, on October 4, 1942, the eldest daughter of the late Elwood Eugene and Phyllis Larue (Hoffman) O’Neil.

Rebecca, known to many as Becky, graduated from Catalina High School in Tucson before attending Central Pilgrim College, now Oklahoma Wesleyan University. There she met her future husband, Donald R. Morley. They married on November 2, 1963, and raised six children, along with many foster children.

Throughout her life, Becky filled many roles, working as a secretary, nanny, nurse’s aide, department store stocker, and preschool teacher. In her own words, “Although I worked outside the home as needed, I believe my main profession has always been a homemaker. My family and children always took priority.” She not only raised six children but also cared for foster children and was the primary caregiver for several family members in their final days.

One of Becky’s greatest gifts was hospitality. She loved welcoming her growing family for holidays and Sunday dinners, always making room for one more at the table. She also cherished her New Life Church family, working with the children into her 80’s and warmly greeting newcomers and helping them feel at home. If someone missed a week or two, she was quick to send an encouraging card.

Becky is survived by her children: Douglas Morley (Karen) of Greensboro, MD; Vicki (Michael) McVay of Tucson, AZ; James Morley of Buckeye, AZ; Sheila (Todd) Mahoney of Tucson, AZ; and Jonathan Morley of Tucson, AZ. She is also survived by twelve grandchildren—Matthew McVay, Danelle Smock, Zachery (Erika) McVay, Drewcilla (Jesse) Bush, Nicholas McVay, Dominique (Cody) Stewart, Delilah Smock, Melissa McVay, Amber McVay, Denise (Gus) Salcido, Ryan Morley, and Andrew Morley—and seven great-grandchildren. She is further survived by her brother, Daryl (Pam) O’Neil of Prescott, AZ; her sister, Bonnie (Wayne) Evans of Peoria, AZ; her brother-in-law, Robert (Isla) Morley of Covina, CA; her son-in-law, Douglas (Kathy) Smock of Tucson, AZ; her dear friend and caregiver, Cindy Garrone; and her beloved dog, Wiley.

Besides her parents, Becky was preceded in death by her husband, Don, her daughter, Dondee Smock, and her sister, Renita O’Neil.

Becky passed away peacefully at Infinity Assisted Living in Tucson, AZ after fighting a series of health issues.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to SupportNow https://www.supportnow.org/rebecca-j-morley for funeral expenses.

A Memorial service will be held later with details forthcoming.