John William Morris, Jr.

June 13, 1925 - February 3, 2015
John William Morris, Jr.

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Jack was born June 13, 1925 at the Philadelphia Navy Yard, the son of the Master Chief John Morris and his wife Gertrude. Jack was the big brother of his two beloved sisters, Norma and Jean.

Starting as a midshipman at Kings Point Merchant Marine Academy, Jack served throughout World War II in the North Atlantic, the Persian Gulf, the Mediterranean, and the Pacific theaters of operation.

While on leave in 1944 he met the love of his life, Mary Louise Vanderberry at her parents’ home in Hopewell, Virginia. Returning home after the war they were married October 19, 1946 and were inseparable for 68 years.

Following his graduation from the University of Richmond Jack worked for the YMCA for his entire career, retiring as the executive director of the Wilmington Y in 1985.

A devoted husband and father, Jack was called home on February 3, 2015. A memorial service, directed by the Rev. Maxine Dornemann, will be held Wednesday, February 11, 2015 at 2:00 p.m. at St. John’s Masonic Lodge #1, 4712 Oriole Drive, Wilmington, NC 28403,

Please share condolences and memories with the family by clicking on the “Sign Guest Book” tab above.

Wilmington Funeral & Cremation, 1535 S.41st Street Wilmington, NC 28403. 910.791.9099.


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