Claude Henry Morgan 1903-1990

Claude Henry Morgan began life on April 11, 1903, the seventh of eight children born to John B. and Ida (Rollins)Morgan. He died September 25, 1990, at the age of 87, having survived all of his siblings. He was born on the Morgan family farm on the Roubidoux Creek south of Waynesville, and he spent his entire life in Pulaski County, with the exception of brief periods attending school in Springfield.

He married Irene Mitchell on October 9, 1931, and they took up residence on South Benton Street in Waynesville.

Claude and Irene had one child, William C. Morgan, and one grandchild, Julie K. K. Morgan. In addition to his wife, son, daughter-in-law Louise Morgan and grandchild, he is survived by many nieces, nephews, cousins and other relatives.

During his lifetime he took an active interest in community and political affairs in Pulaski County, and served two terms as a member of the Board of Education of the Waynesville School District.

Although Claude always considered himself to be first and foremost a farmer, he spent most of his adult life engaged in various occupations in Waynesville. He served as a Deputy Circuit Clerk and Recorder for Pulaski County and was a property and casualty insurance agent for over fifty years.

Beginning in the middle 1960's, he and his brother Joe N. Morgan acquired the Pulaski County Abstract Company. Claude managed that business until his son became manager in 1968. Thereafter he continued to be active in the business as well as on the farm.

He suffered the first of several strokes in 1985 and became increasingly impaired until he was admitted to Sunset Village in February 1988, where he remained until his death.

Funeral services were held Thursday September 27, 1990, in the Waynesville Memorial Chapel with Reverend Richard Breeden officiating. A eulogy was given by William C. Morgan. Music was provided by organist Jean Ely and soloist Charles Folkert. Serving as escorts were Art Anderson, Jim Laughlin, Keith Prichard, Sr., Tom Tinsley, and Greg Warren. Honorary escorts were Norman Humphrey, G. W. Lane, Joe Miller, and C. W. Parker.

Burial was in the Morgan Family Cemetery, Pulaski County MO. Services were under the direction of Waynesville Memorial Chapel.

A memorial has been established to the Masonic Lodge 375 AF&AM New Building Fund in memory of Claude Morgan.