James Durwood Morrison, Jr

James Durwood Morrison, Jr, 90, of Charlotte, died Tuesday, April 5, 2016, at CMC in Pineville. James was born in Statesville, NC, on November 11, 1925, the son of James Durwood Morrison, Sr. and Mary Troutman Morrison. He answered his country’s call to service during World War II and honorably served in the United States Marine Corps. James went on to graduate from Lenoir Rhyne College, majoring in Music & Education. He began his teaching career in 1951 in Spartanburg, SC. He later moved to Charlotte and taught at A.G. Jr. High & West Mecklenburg High School where he taught Choral Music from 1954 until 1990. James also enjoyed serving the Lord and using his musical talents to do so. He was the Minister of Music at Park Rd. Baptist Church from 1954 to 1976. In addition he also served with the following parishes: Steele Creek Presbyterian Church, Living Savior Lutheran Church, Wedgewood American Baptist Church, and First Associate Reformed Presbyterian Church, Statesville, NC. Not limited to serving churches, James also used his talents for the benefit of his community. He served as chorus master for the Charlotte Opera Association in the 1960’s as well as also being a Water Safety Instructor and lifeguard at public and private pools in Statesville, Spartanburg, Hickory and Charlotte. His passion later in life was travelling with his wife, Celeste. James’ life was about serving others and using his musical talents, but what he most loved was the time spent with family and friends. He will be sadly missed and fondly remembered by all who knew him. James is survived by: son Chad Morrison & wife Lisa of Vero Beach, Florida; daughter Amy Owenby & husband Paul of Glendive, MT; stepson John Needy & wife Nancy of Spartaburg, SC; stepdaughter Carol Scovel & husband Terry of Charlotte, NC; stepson Bill Needy & wife Karen of Chattam, VA; grandchildren: Allie Morrison, Will & Micky Owenby, Elizabeth Geddes, Stephen Needy, Barry Scovel and wife Heather, Kim Schermerhorn, and Holly Needy. He was preceded in death by his wife, Celeste; a daughter, Patricia Bishop and sister, Maryhelen Morrison. Services honoring James will be held at 10 am on Friday, April 8, 2016, at Southpark Christian Church, 6650 Park South Drive, Charlotte. Inurnment will follow in the church columbarium. James’ family has given the family of Lowe-Neddo Funeral Home the privilege of caring for them. Please take a moment to share a memory or photo of him and thank you for keeping his family in thought, prayer and deed during this time.

James Durwood Morrison, Jr

November 11, 1925 - April 5, 2016