Mary Jean Hawkins Morgan

Surrounded by her adoring family, Mary Jean Morgan of Long Beach peacefully entered into the arms of her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ Friday, August 16th, 2013. She died a few days shy of her 82nd birthday.
Mary Jean was born in Huntsville, AL, August 26, 1931, one of nine children of O.P. and Lilly Gertrude Hawkins. She was a longtime resident of Long Beach, and worked more than 20 years caring for the children of Head Start. She will also be fondly remembered for her years managing the Junior Food Mart that was located on Jeff Davis Avenue.
Her quick and dry wit was well received by all who knew her, and those who came to know her through her husband of 61 years, J.B. Morgan, and her children. She especially enjoyed the opportunity to subtly skewer the pompous and pretentious, but she did so in such a way that she forever maintained their respect.
A devoted member of the First Baptist Church of Long Beach, where she was a member of the Willing Workers Sunday School Class., Mary Jean instilled a strong religious commitment in her children, and many others to whom she provided friendship and counsel.
Her life was not one rich in material possessions, but she was never at a loss when her family or friends were in need. She lived her life as an inspiration to everyone who had the good fortune to know her. And she was a giving friend of unconditional endurance, who accepted and appreciated others for their individuality. Even in her final days of struggle, her family remained amazed by her strength and her concern for everyone else.
Mary Jean is survived by her husband J.B.; daughter Bonnie McNeal (Steve) of Venice, LA; son Sonny Morgan of Scarborough, ME; daughter Sandra Presley (Elvis) of Long Beach; and also F. Cliff Kirkland of Biloxi and Karen Morgan of Long Beach. She also is survived by grandchildren Ben Morgan, Daliance Ross (Craig), Paul Kirkland (Alexis), and Julie Presley; and great-grandchildren Greysen and McRae Ross, Bryson Close, Jack Kirkland and Rylan Chain. She is also remembered by her adopted grandchildren Petey Close, Brittney Lanning and Jason Chain.
Services will be held Tuesday, August 20th, at the RIEMANN FAMILY FUNERAL HOME on Commission Road. After a private family remembrance, a public Visitation will be held for one hour beginning at 11 a.m. The funeral will follow at 12 noon, and interment will be at Gulf Pines Cemetery.
An online guest book may be signed at www.riemannfamily.com