John H. Morrill, teacher, family patriarch
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of John H. Morrill 1929-2019. The Lord called him home in a peaceful manner Wednesday, May 2019, in his 89th year. His life was well-lived and well-loved.
This gentle, loving, caring and wonderful man has left a permanent mark etched on our hearts and will be greatly missed, especially by his wife and best friend of 65 years, Joan M. Morrill.
He is survived by his two children Dave Morrill and Cheryl Luciano. John was a proud grandfather to James (Jodi Lemon) Morrill, Brian (Mindy) Morrill, Heather (Troy) Truitt, John (Melissa Collins) Morrill, Christina (Justin) Bickling, Shawn (Chris) Luciano and Eric (Megan Ferry) Luciano. He enjoyed being around his 19 great-grandchildren Allie, Kylie, Christopher, Chase, Tori, Payton, Braelyn, Avery, Colton, Carson, Eric Jr., Leighann, Alivia, Katelyn, Connor, Jaiden, Caleb, Ava and Parker.
While in Audubon, N.J., John worked as a diesel mechanic and instructor for 17 years. John, Joan and their grandson John (JD) Morrill moved to Millsboro in August 1989 where he became a substitute school teacher for the Indian River School District as well as Sussex Technical High School.
John was an honorably discharged Army veteran where he served in the Korean War from 1950-52. He then became a member of the reserves until 1953. He was a member of the U.S. Coast Guard and continued to serve his community as a firefighter for Defender Fire Department in Audubon and Indian River Fire Department in Millsboro.
Family was a pivotal essence of John’s life. He was proud and honored to be the patriarch of the family, a father, grandfather and great-grandfather to his large family. He has been a major presence in the lives of his children and grandchildren. He loved walking and spending time with his K-9 companion Flicka. John had a long-standing relationship with God, and was very blessed with his faith to his dying breath.
A funeral service will be held at noon, Wednesday, May 8, at the Long Neck Chapel of Melson Funeral Services, 32013 Long Neck Road, Millsboro, where friends and family may call after 10 a.m. A chapel committal service will be held at 1 p.m., Thursday, May 9, at the Delaware Veterans Memorial Cemetery, 26669 Patriots Way, Millsboro.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions in John’s name to the Coast Guard Auxiliary Association, 9449 Watson Industrial Park, St. Louis, MO 63126 or by visiting www.cgauxa.org
Online condolences may be sent by visiting www.melsonfuneralservices.com
