James Paul Morgan Jr.

James "Jim" Paul Morgan Jr., 85, of Jacksonville, Florida, passed away on March 30, 2026. Known to his family as Pop, he was a big-hearted, fair man who kept his word, worked hard, and put family first in everything he did.

Jim was born on August 31, 1940, in Baltimore, Maryland. He enlisted in the United States Marine Corps in 1957 and served for 10 years, rising to the rank of Sergeant. He was part of the first helicopter squadron to deploy to Vietnam, a distinction he carried with pride for the rest of his life. His military record includes the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, the National Defense Service Medal, and the Good Conduct Medal. He was a proud member of the Pop-a Smoke Reunion and one of its last surviving members. Semper Fi.

After his honorable discharge in 1966, Jim settled in Jacksonville and built a tow truck business he ran for 38 years. He had a lifelong passion for trains, planes, and helicopters, hobbies that reflected the same mechanical world he served in uniform.

On July 26, 1958, Jim married Geraldine "Gerry" Dowling in Charlton County, Georgia. They were married for 68 years.

He is survived by his wife, Gerry; his children, James P. Morgan III (Beth), Theresa McGee (Vic), and Valerie Brumleve (Michael); seven grandchildren and their spouses; and eight great-grandchildren.

A military service with full honors will be held on Tuesday, April 14, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at Jacksonville National Cemetery, 4083 Lannie Road, Jacksonville, Florida 32218.