John David Morrow, 47, passed away peacefully on Sunday evening January 18, 2026 in Kyle, Texas after a tragic accident the previous day. Born September 22, 1978, in Altoona, PA, John later made his home in Virginia, then Pasadena, Houston and Driftwood, Texas. He was a beloved mathematics teacher at James Bowie High School in Austin, having left a successful career as an energy commodities broker in Houston to pursue his true passion for teaching. He deeply cared for his students.
John was a loyal friend to many—more than could be listed here—always nurturing his relationships and eagerly forming new ones wherever the scenic route led him. His humor, compassion, loyalty and unassuming charm won over many friends whose families often loved him as one of their own.
John loved music. Every genre. Passionately. He loved discovering new music and exposing his friends to music constantly and he especially enjoyed attending live music events at venues large and small. His very favorite artist was Ray Lamontagne, whom he saw in concert many times.
John's faith in Jesus was steadfast. He attended Austin Ridge Bible Church as well as Cypress Creek Church in Wimberley.
Before earning his finance degree from the University of Houston Downtown, John worked with respected restaurant businesses operated by the Pappas, Perry and Ybarra families. While at Pappas, he managed to study for and earn his coveted title of Wine Sommelier. Great wine and delicious food shared amongst friends was a forever passion for John.
Collecting and trading wine not only funded his education but also supported his remarkable travels, which included many cross-country road trips visiting family and friends. Hiking, concerts, taking the road last traveled (along with lots of beautiful photographs) and stopping to mail postcards to loved ones made for great and memorable adventures.
John is survived by his mother, Karen (Young) Richards and stepfather Kevin; his father, Dr. David Morrow and stepmother Dr. Catherine (Brooks); his sister Jeanne (Morrow) Lutz and her husband Paul, and their daughters Taylor, Whitney, Gabbey, and Emily Lutz; as well as numerous aunts, uncles, cousins and their families and his best friend, Jodie Eisenhardt.
John's family is deeply grateful to the staff at Ascension Seton Hospital's Critical Care Unit for their exceptional care and compassion shown to John and his family and friends. They also thank the individual who called 911 and the first responders whose swift actions provided loved ones the opportunity to say goodbye.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Monday, February 2nd at 1:00 p.m. at Heights Theater, 339 W. 19th in Houston. Guests are encouraged to wear their favorite concert attire or colorful clothing. Afterwards, join us for remembrance, laughter, and stories at EZ's Liquor Lounge, 3302 White Oak Dr., from 4 until 7 p.m.
On Wednesday, February 4th there will be a program by students, held in John's memory at James Bowie High School, in the library at 5 p.m.
A scholarship fund for James Bowie High School students will be set up soon in John's name. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you donate to this fund (link will be posted soon), or to Blood Cancer United as John was a very grateful 20-year Non-Hodgkins lymphoma survivor.