John Vincent Morgan, Jr., age 86, passed away peacefully on Saturday, March 7, 2026. He was born on August 26, 1939, in Saltville, Virginia, to the late Rhoda Edith Blevins Morgan and John Vincent Morgan, Sr.

John was a beloved and respected member of his community, remembered for his warm spirit, quick wit, and engaging sense of humor. A man of many talents, he possessed a strong entrepreneurial drive and a deep appreciation for hard work. He found joy in farming and took particular pride in restoring old farm equipment and trucks, pursuits that reflected both his skill and his love of the land.

A graduate of Emory & Henry College and a lifelong fan, John devoted his early career to education as a junior high and high school teacher. He was deeply admired by his students, who honored him as their favorite teacher. His commitment to public service led him to become Smyth County's first public building inspector, and he remained actively involved in the Rich Valley Farmers Club. Among his many business ventures, John owned a Ford Tractor dealership and later served as principal of Rich Valley Elementary School. He had a genuine love for teaching and for children, and years later, members of the community continue to share fond memories and stories of the lasting inspiration he provided.

Including his parents, John was preceded in death by his beloved wife of over thirty years, Wanda Sue Morgan.

Left to cherish his memory are his sister, Sarah Anne Morgan Thompson; his brother-in-law, Arthur J. Thompson; his nieces, Susan Morgan Thompson King and her husband William, and Michelle Thompson Burris and her husband Thomas; and his great-nieces, Cary Saylor Burris and Caleigh Anne Burris. Additional survivors include his stepson, Sanders Chad Barrett; his step-grandchildren, Katelyn Jade Barrett and Kristin Desiree Barrett-Jones; his step-great-grandchildren, Chaden Michael Jones, Shayla Nefaye Jones, Kyra Desiree Jones, Alyssa Jade Jones, Alahna Grace Jones, and Christopher Landon Jones. John is also fondly remembered by his good friends Chris "Hoppy" Clear and "Big" Tom Buchanan.

The family will receive friends Saturday, March 21, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. at Rich Valley Presbyterian Church. Services will begin at 11:00 a.m. with Pastor Mike Klumpp officiating.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations in memory of John be made to Rich Valley Presbyterian Church, 3811 Valley Road, Saltville, VA 24370 (www.richvalleypresbyterianchurch.org).

Online condolences may be expressed at drhendersonfuneralhome.com. The D.R. Henderson Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of John Vincent Morgan, Jr.