Jack Hays Morgan Sr., 89, a lifelong resident of Newton County, died peacefully at his home March 3. The son of Joe Carter and Margaret Hays Morgan, he was born in 1919 and lived his entire life in Newton County until serving in the United States Navy during World War II. On his return, he started the area’s first pulpwood yard which is still in operation today. Mr. Morgan served his community in various political arenas as well as serving as a member of the Georgia House of Representatives and the Newton County Commission Chairman. He was appointed by Gov. Joe Frank Harris to serve as a member of the Georgia Rural Development Authority.

            Surviving are wife of 64 years Mrs. Barbara Davis Morgan and their seven children Barbara M. Morgan (Bob Furnad), Jack H. Morgan Jr. (Melody), Emily M. Adams (Lanier), John E. Morgan (Robbi), William H. Morgan (Amy), Edna M. Kirkley (Tony Rossi) and Daniel T. Morgan; daughter-in-law Kathy Morgan; 17 grandchildren and their spouses and partners; seven great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his son Davis Morgan and seven of his siblings.

            Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Thursday, March 5, at Covington First United Methodist Church with the Rev. Royesse Stowe, the Rev. Sanford McDonald and the Rev. Julie Schendel officiating. Interment will follow at Starrsville United Methodist Church Cemetery. Eight of Mr. Morgan’s grandsons will serve as pallbearers, and his Sunday School Class, consisting of Carl Smith, Billy Smith and Sam Ramsey, will serve as honorary pallbearers. The family will receive friends at the funeral home today, March 4, from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. In lieu of flowers, those desiring may make contributions to the Luther Hays Presbyterian Church of the Covington First United Methodist Church. Friends may sing the online register at www.wheelerfuneralhome.com.