Michael James "Mike" Morton

JACKSONVILLE - Michael James Morton passed away peacefully during the early morning hours of January 20, 2026, at UNC Health Hospital in Chapel Hill, NC. He was surrounded by those who loved him the most and is now eternally healed from his earthly sickness. His loved ones hold to the promise that they will be reunited with him one day. A celebration of life service will take place at 1:00 p.m. on Tuesday, January 27 at Jones Funeral Home, Jacksonville Chapel with Rev. Frank Rice and Rev. Anthony Odom officiating. A graveside service will follow at the family cemetery at 170 Croom Lane, Jacksonville, NC.

Mike was a welder by trade, learning his skills while working in his father's welding shop from an early age. Having mastered these skills while employed at Humphrey Mechanical, Inc., he entered the classroom as an instructor where he passionately shared his knowledge and love for the craft with students at both Coastal Carolina Community College and Swansboro High School. He then played an integral role in the welding department as a founding member of the Eastern North Carolina Regional Skills Center.

He was a faithful servant of his Savior, Jesus Christ, humbly ministering as a deacon, a school board member of Jacksonville Christian Academy, a Sunday School teacher, and an ambassador for the Gideons International. He loved participating in church functions and outreach events. He could almost always be found near the grill at these activities, enjoying good food, conversation, and laughter with members of the community. Through his life and service, he continually reminded everyone of a simple yet powerful truth: "How big is your God?"

Mike had a zest for life that extended beyond his family and faith. He loved restoring and cruising in his Model A cars, cheering passionately for the UNC Tar Heels, and discovering the best places to eat wherever he went. He also served as a board member at the Swansboro State Employees' Credit Union. Mike lived selflessly in all his endeavors, possessing a rare gift for bringing joy to everyone around him.

He is preceded in death by Shirlen Ed Morton (father); Barbara Dalton Morton (mother); and Jeffrey "Butterball" Dean Morton (brother).

Those left to cherish his memory include the love of his life of almost 39 years, Melissa Morton; his faithfully loving daughters, Catherine Odom (Anthony) and Sarah Gaskins (Joseph); his treasured grandchildren, Francis Jude Odom, Charlotte Ray Gaskins, and James Fisher Gaskins; and his loyal brother, Stevie Morton (Meredith).

The family extends their deepest gratitude to the medical professionals at UNC Health Hospital for their compassionate and faithful care over the past three years. They offer special thanks to Dr. Cristine Klatt- Cromwell, whose unwavering commitment, attentiveness, and personal investment brought great comfort and reassurance throughout Mike's journey. The family is also deeply grateful to the SECU Family House in Chapel Hill for their extraordinary hospitality. The lodging, meals, and welcoming atmosphere they provided brought joy and rest during a difficult season. Additionally, heartfelt appreciation is extended to Ms. Deysi and Ms. Ruth for their care and support for Mike and the family.

The family will receive friends on Monday, January 26, from 5:00–7:00 p.m. at Jones Funeral Home in Jacksonville, NC.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorials be made in Mike's honor to the SECU Family House in Chapel Hill, NC. Donations may be sent to 123 Old Mason Farm Road, Chapel Hill, NC 27517, or made online at www.secufh.org/donate.