Benjamin Earnest Morgan

MORGAN Benjamin Earnest Morgan, died quietly at home April 13, 2009. His wife kept loving watch at his bedside.Born to Chester Stephen Morgan and Anna May Smith of Hillsboro, Texas, on March 11, 1924. Hillsboro was his home until he volunteered at age 18 to serve his country in the army. He served honorably in the European Theater of Operation in England, France and Austria. On returning to the States, he enrolled under the GI Bill of Rights at the University of Texas-Austin to pursue a BS degree in Geology. It was at the University that he met Cornelia Sample, a fellow student, who became his wife on June 25, 1949. A son, Stephen George, came into their lives in 1953. Ben's first job after attaining his degree was a scout with the Arkansas Fuel Oil Company. The couple moved to Corpus Christi when Ben became a geologist for Sam E. Wilson. Later he became an independent geologist. When the oil slump hit, a decision was made to stay in Corpus Christi so that his son's education would not be interrupted. He taught math at Tom Brown Middle School for twelve years. With the resurgence of the oil industry, Ben returned as a geologist with Nugget Oil Company. He also enjoyed many years coaching Little League through Youth Baseball. A tragedy struck when his son Stephen drowned, April 2, 1975 while a student at the University of Texas-Austin.The years of retirement allowed Ben time to further cement friendships made in his profession. He enjoyed gardening and playing poker with his former business associates.A new world of interest began when Ben purchased an interest in a leading sire's son thus began a hobby of ten years duration.Memories that live on in each heart of those who knew him will long remember his even temperament, accepting nature, dry wit and gentle manner. His word was his bond. Honesty was maintained in all things. Survivors are his wife of 60 years, Cornelia, one brother, Chester S. Morgan and Helen of Oak Ridge, Tennessee, Julian and Mary Rose Brown and Elizabeth Trickett of Baton Rouge, Louisiana; many nieces, nephews, grandnieces and grand nephews.Funeral Services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, April 16, 2009 at St. Luke's United Methodist Church.Interment will follow at Seaside Memorial Park.In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be given to St. Luke's United Methodist Church, 3151 Reid Drive, Corpus Christi, Texas 78404.Pallbearers will be Tim Myers, Jeff Massengill, Ron Morgan, Blaine Morgan, John Trickett, Phil Brown and Benjamin Morgan. To view guestbook, share memories and leave condolences, please visit www.seasidefuneral.com