John Read Morse Jr.

John R. Morse Jr., age 78, passed away peacefully on November 5, 2025, residing in Houma, Born on January 30, 1947, in Metairie Louisiana.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend a visitation on Saturday, November 22, 2025, at the Cathedral of St. Francis de Sales Catholic in Houma, from 9.30am until the Mass of Christian Burial at 11am, Burial will take place in St. Francis de Sales Cemetery.

He built a life defined by service, duty, and community. He was educated at Saint Catherine of Siena Catholic School and later attended the University of New Orleans, where he studied criminal justice. His passion for law enforcement led him to become a certified crisis negotiator, a police academy adjunct instructor, and a dedicated field training officer who shaped the careers of many young officers.

John is survived by his loving wife of 42 years, Lois Fakier Morse; his son, John R. Morse III (Andrea); his daughter, Debbie; and his stepchildren, Gregory Fakier (Manon), George Fakier III (Cynthia), and Susan Fakier Courtney (Keith). He is also survived by his sister, Jackie Morse Fraiser (William). His legacy carries on through his grandchildren: John R. Morse IV, Blake G. Morse, Adam Courtney, Austin Courtney (Lexi), Braden Falgout (Rebecca), James Fakier, and Trish Fakier Masengi (Jordy).

He was preceded in death by his parents, John Morse Sr. and Emilia Barrios Morse, and his stepson, Glenn Fakier.

John's law enforcement career spanned nearly four decades, during which he served with distinction across multiple agencies, including the New Orleans Police Department, the Jefferson Parish Sheriff's Office, and the Lafourche Parish Sheriff's Office, where he retired with the rank of Detective Captain. His work in criminal investigations earned him deep respect among peers. He was part of the team that responded to the Howard Johnson sniper shooting in 1972, one of the most pivotal moments in New Orleans law enforcement history. He also served as personal bodyguard to John Mecom Jr. during Mr. Mecom's ownership of the New Orleans Saints, a role that reflected both his professionalism and calm under pressure.

Beyond his badge, John was a man of curiosity. He enjoyed building and deploying electronic surveillance systems. He enjoyed golf, fishing, and marksmanship.

The family extends heartfelt appreciation to Dr. Dickie Haydel, both a trusted physician and dear friend, for his compassion and care. In memory of John's lifelong dedication to law enforcement, donations may be made to a local police department or to organizations supporting law enforcement professionals and their families, including the National Police Foundation, the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund, and Concerns of Police Survivors (C.O.P.S.).