JAMES B. MORGAN age 87, born January 13, 1929 in Cleveland, died peacefully while under Hospice Care at Hillcrest Hospital on January 25, 2016. Beloved husband for 61 years of the late Ruth E. (nee Sharp); loving father of James B., Jr. (wife Katrinka), Thomas A., Donna J., and Janet M. Baker (husband Stephen); devoted grandfather of Chris VanCauwenberge (Gary), Sarah, Michael, Kellie, Kaylee Baker and Allyson Baker; cherished son of the late J. Bryce and Irma Morgan; dearest brother of Marian Pierce (Honolulu, HI), Patricia Parker (Greenwich, CT) and the late Eileen Webster; dear uncle and great-uncle of many.
Jim, paraplegic since 2003, enjoyed the care and company of several remarkable caregivers while living at Grace Woods. The Morgan family extends its sincere gratitude and best wishes for these incredibly giving women. Jim was an enthusiastic Christian and an active member of Mayfield Church (Chesterland, OH). Mr. Morgan was an IBEW Local 38 electrician who acquired Harrington Electric Co. in 1971. Harrington remains the oldest electrical contracting company in Cleveland, established in 1907.
His Dad passed when Jim was only 15 years old, at which time he assumed the role of man-of-the-house, dutiful son, and beloved brother. Jim graduated from Collinwood High School where he met the love of his life, Ruth Sharp. Jim and Ruth were married in 1949. In 2000 Jim was inducted into the Collinwood High School Hall-of-Fame, recognizing Collinwood graduates who contributed to the community and enjoyed successful careers. Jim was a board member of the East Cleveland YMCA in its developmental years, and volunteered his skills for church projects and community activities. He contributed significantly to Cleveland area charities, such as the Cleveland Clinic Children’s Hospital, annual Cleveland Cavalier fundraisers for research in the field of Macular Degeneration, The Malley Foundation which funded a swimming pool, two children’s homes, and more.
Jim was an avid gardener and enjoyed beautifying the grounds at Grace Woods, part of Breckenridge Village where he and Ruth retired in 2010. He was an active contributor to the Garden Ministry, God’s Caring Community, Camp Aldersgate, and other groups at Mayfield Church. Jim became an electrician in 1947 and worked on commercial jobs, power plants, and steel mills. He joined Harrington Electric Co. in 1959 and acquired ownership in 1971. Harrington Electric Co. worked on many area landmarks such as the Federal Reserve Bank, Key Tower, Severance Hall, Browns Stadium, Beachwood Place Mall, and many more. In 1982 Jim was inducted into the prestigious Academy of Electrical Contracting and in 1989 his peers elected him for the position of vice-president of the National Electrical Contractors Association representing the NECA District 2 (covering 7 states and Washington, D.C.).
Contributions may be made in James’ memory to Mayfield Church-Camp Aldersgate, 7747 Mayfield Rd., Chesterland, OH 44026.
Celebration of Life Service Friday, January 29, 2016 at 10 AM at Mayfield Church. Burial following at Knollwood Cemetery. Family will receive friends to pay tribute to and celebrate the life of Jim at THE DeJOHN-FLYNN-MYLOTT FUNERAL HOME OF WILLOUGHBY HILLS, 28890 CHARDON ROAD (between Bishop Rd. and Rt. 91) THURSDAY 3-8 PM.
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Bill Coleman
Tom – Sorry to see the passing of your father. The few times I met him, It was obvious he was wonderful human being. The world needs more people like Jim. Again, I am sorry for your loss.
Linda Maurer
Dear Jim’s Family,
Jim was such a sweet man. A few years ago we were in a grief class at church where I befriended Jim. He always spoke so lovingly of Ruth. Everyone who knew Jim will miss him dearly. May your wonderful memories of him sustain you through these sad days. Jim and Ruth are now dancing in heaven. God bless you and how lucky you are to have had Jim as a close family member…
Gerry Higgins
So sorry to hear of Jim’s passing. I always enjoyed his company in NECA and on trips. Our sympathy goes out to all of his family.
Ann Vincent (Anu)
Although I was only privileged with a fleeting amount of time with Jim, through his son, Thomas, I know that he was gracious and kind individual who Loved Christ, enthusiastically served his community, and who, above all, Loved his Children.
Cheers, Jim, on a remarkably well-lived, virtuous and productive American life! You have set a high bar and were an exemplary role model for your family, friends, and associates on what A LIFE WELL LIVED IS.
This I know for sure: as you exited, Christ met you with these words “Well done, my good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master’s happiness!” I imagine that you are establishing an expanded Harrington “garden and all” in heaven, smiling on your children, nibbling on some heavenly sweets, and most of all enjoying the sweet company of your beloved Ruth.
My condolences to Thomas, Donna, and the Morgan family.
Sincerely,
Ann Vincent (Anu)
Beth Dixon
So sorry Donna and family for the loss of your father. What a handsome and accomplished man!