Charles M. Morse

STURBRIDGE – Charles M. Morse Sr, 89, passed away peacefully November 11, 2025, at UMass Memorial Medical Center in Worcester, surrounded by the love of his family.

Born in Sturbridge to the late Harry and Ruth (Snell) Morse, Charles was a lifelong resident of the community he cherished. He was educated in local schools and devoted his professional life to skilled craftsmanship, spending 30 years as a master polisher at American Optical Company, followed by many years at Thermo Fisher Scientific in Franklin, MA.

Charles was predeceased by his beloved wife of 52 years, Carolyn (Anderson) Morse, who passed away on April 11, 2011, and his brother, Harry Morse.

He leaves behind his devoted children: Charles Morse and his wife Lesa of Sturbridge; Betty Morse and her husband Mike Roy of Sturbridge; Ruth Durling and her husband Bob of Woodstock; Linda Henk and her husband John of Norwich; and Christine Morse Comtois of Sturbridge. Charles was the proud grandfather of Shane, Kevin, Sabrina, Aimee, Charlie, Kim, Ashley, Melinda, Steven, and Crystal, and the cherished great-grandfather of great-grandchildren Bruce, Dominic, Ryan, Devan, Meah, Rowan, Juniper, Aiden, Brent, Peter, Weston, Colton, Amelia and baby Cassidy due January of 2026 all of whom brought immeasurable joy to his life. In addition, he leaves behind several nieces and nephews, as well as his sister-in-law, Sue Chaplin.

A man of simple pleasures and steadfast dedication, Charles maintained an active lifestyle throughout his years, faithfully exercising on his stationary bike. He had a passion for motorcycles and classic cars, particularly his prized Cadillac, and enjoyed watching NASCAR racing. An avid football enthusiast, he carried his love of the sport throughout his life. Charles had a tender heart for animals, especially German Shepherd dogs; his faithful companion, Bandit, was by his side for many years.

Above all, Charles was a devoted family man who served as the cornerstone of the Morse family. He found his greatest happiness in gathering with his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, creating cherished memories that will be treasured forever. His gentle presence, unwavering support, and loving spirit will be profoundly missed by all who knew him.

Calling hours will be held on Friday, November 21, 2025, from 2:00 to 4:00 PM and 6:00 to 8:00 PM at Belanger-Bullard Funeral Home, 51 Marcy Street, Southbridge. A funeral service will be celebrated on Saturday, November 22, 2025, at 10:00 AM at The Sturbridge Federated Church, 8 Maple Street, Sturbridge, followed by burial at North Cemetery in Sturbridge. Family and friends are invited to gather at the church fellowship hall for a reception following the services.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to St. Jude’s Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude’s Place, Memphis, TN 38105 (www.stjude.org/donate), or to a charity of one's choice in Charles's memory.

An online guestbook and tribute video are available at www.BelangerFuneralHome.com.