Thomas Hudson Morgan
Thomas Hudson Morgan, 92, died peacefully in his home at Morgan Springs on September 26, 2024. He was born in Chattanooga to Spurgeon Snow Morgan and Althea Marcella Blackburn Morgan on April 19, 1932.
Tom retired from the Air Force, serving in the Washington, D.C. area from 1952-1972, where he was involved in the bluegrass music movement of the era. After moving back to Tennessee, he continued building instruments and playing the music he loved. He was preceded in death by his wife, Mary Ruth Newell Morgan, and sons, Thomas Scott Morgan and George Richard Morgan.
He is survived by his daughter, Melissa Jo Morgan Foster; grandchildren Richard Paul Morgan, Zachary Scott Morgan, Sarah Beth Morgan, Coralee Hall, and Saralyn Lilly; and his great-granddaughter Courtney Melissa Hall.
A private burial was held at Morgan Springs Cemetery. A public memorial service and celebration of Tom’s life will be held on October 26th at Walden’s Ridge Community Center. All are welcome, and instruments are encouraged.
Condolences can be made at www.pikevillefuneralhome.com.
Pikeville Funeral Home was entrusted with arrangements.
Tom and I were friends for over 60 years, starting when he sold me an old Gibson banjo in 1963. We stayed in touch with each other throughout the rest of his life. Tom was a wonderful musician and multi-instrumentalist with bluegrass groups. He was also a widely known and respected luthier and instrumental repairman. He and his sons crafted some outstanding guitars and autoharps. He was featured in a book honoring some of the best luthiers in the country. My wife and I had the honor of accompanying him in a special program honoring his work when that book was published. We also enjoyed a visit to see him about 10 years ago in Morgan Springs. I loved having you as a friend, Tom, and I will always remember you as the fine musician and friend you were to me. RIP, my old friend.