Beth Morgan

Merle Elizabeth Morgan, affectionately known as Beth to her friends and family, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, November 18, 2025, in Sullivan, Missouri, at the age of 83. Born on September 18, 1942, in Nashville, Arkansas to James and Mary (Copeland) Reeder, Beth's early years were filled with the simple joys of small-town life. She was a bright and curious child, and her love for learning was evident from a young age.
Beth's academic journey began in the schools of Nashville, where her passion for education and her nurturing spirit first took root. After graduating from Nashville High School in 1960, she continued her education at Ouachita Baptist University in Arkadelphia, Arkansas. It was there that she earned her Bachelor's degree in Elementary Education in 1964, setting the stage for a life dedicated to the growth and development of young minds.
It was also during her time at university that Beth met the love of her life, Leon Morgan. The couple married on June 14, 1964, in Nashville, AR, and their union was blessed with two children, Michael and Melissa. Soon after their wedding, they relocated to Cuba, Missouri, where Beth began her teaching career. Their journey together took them to Bourbon in 1968, and finally to Sullivan in 1970, where they established their forever home.
While her children were young, Beth chose to retire from teaching to fully embrace the role of homemaker. She found great joy in creating a warm and loving environment for her family, and her dedication to her husband and children was unwavering. Beth's life was a testament to the values of patience, kindness, and unconditional love.
Beth's Christian faith was the cornerstone of her existence. She was an active and devoted member of Calvary Baptist Church in Bourbon and later Temple Baptist Church in Sullivan. Her involvement in women's Bible studies, along with teaching Sunday School and Vacation Bible School, allowed her to share her faith and wisdom with others. Beth's relationship with the Lord provided her with a deep sense of peace and fulfillment, which she found especially during her quiet moments of reading the Bible.
Beyond her family and faith, Beth had a variety of interests that enriched her life. She was an avid reader, always eager to explore new worlds and ideas through the pages of a book. Her fascination with the natural world was evident in her love for watching and studying birds, a hobby that brought her immense pleasure. Beth and Leon also enjoyed taking small trips together, exploring the beauty and history of their local area.
Beth is survived by her loving husband, Leon Morgan; her two children: Michael Morgan of Sullivan, MO and Melissa Murray and husband, Joe of Bourbon, MO; two brothers, James Reeder and Reginald Reeder both of Nashville, AR; a sister, Alta Upchurch and husband, Harry of Wake Village, TX; and numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents, James and Mary Reeder; and a sister, Rosalee Richardson.
Services will be 10:00 AM, Saturday, November 22, 2025 at Temple Baptist Church in Sullivan with Pastor Scott Perry officiating. Burial will follow at Bourbon Cemetery.
Visitation will be 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM, Friday, November 21, 2025 at the Eaton Funeral Home in Sullivan, MO.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Temple Baptist Church Lasting Legacy Fund.
Friends may send their online condolences to Beth's family at www.eatonfuneralhome.com
All arrangements are under the care of the Eaton Funeral Home of Sullivan.