Retia Monzia Morgan

With heartfelt sympathy, we announce the earthly transition of  Retia M. Morgan of Gadsden, who traded time for eternity on Tuesday, October 4, 2022, at the age of 75  We ask that you keep her family and friends in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.

Ms. Retia M. Morgan was born October 3, 1947, in Gadsden, Alabama. She was the oldest of six children born to the late Albert and Beatrice Morgan.
 
At an early age, Retia joined the Friendship Missionary Baptist Church where she confessed Christ as her Lord and personal Savior under the pastorage of the late Rev. E. B. Radden. She loved her church dearly. 

She obtained her education through the Gadsden City Schools system.  She attended L.V. Johnson Elementary School and was a graduate of Carver High School. She earned a Bachelor of Science degree in elementary education at Alabama A & M University. She was a passionate and talented teacher. After graduating, she became a member of the Alabama A & M Alumni where she served as treasurer during her tenure. 

Teaching was a rewarding profession for Retia.  She taught at L.V. Johnson and Jesse Dean Smith Elementary Schools.  She spent the majority of her teaching years at C. A. Donehoo Elementary School. Her accolades included Teacher of the Year for C. A. Donehoo Elementary School in 1990 and 2005 and again selected for Teacher of the Year of 1990 for the Gadsden City School system.  The light of her talents shone so brightly that she was chosen Who's Who Among American Teachers of 1998, 2000, and 2005; as well as chosen Outstanding American Teacher of 2006.  She retired from the Gadsden City School system with over 36 years of dedicated service. 

Retia was a lover of music.  She began her musical journey at young age and later served as Minister of Music for more than 35 years at the Friendship Missionary Baptist.  Her vision was to glorify God, and minister to and through God's people with song.  She passionately enjoyed working with the choir and creating an atmosphere of praise and worship that was sure to uplift and encourage.  The memory of her music continues to warm the hearts of many.  Oh, what a journey it was! 

Retia had a beautiful alto voice and was instrumental in singing with the Gadsden Music Workshop Choir, and also with the Charlie Nelms Singers.

In her home church, she served as chairperson of the E.B. Radden Circle and Secretary of the General Missionary Society.  Retia was very active in participating in church and community events until her health began to fail. 

In her quiet time, Retia enjoyed playing the piano, reading, collecting angels, and recipes.  Cooking was a favorite of hers, and the family enjoyed her delicious dishes.   She enjoyed being around people, but yet loved her quiet and peaceful moments. Retia was a fun, loving, and honest person.  She had the biggest heart and often stretched out her hand to help those who needed it.  Retia will be greatly missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing her. 

Retia was preceded, in death by her parents, Albert and Beatrice Morgan; and brother, William Morgan. 

On Tuesday, October 4, 2022, she heard a gentle voice and went home to be with the Lord. 

She leaves a legacy of love to her loving family, a devoted sister, Grace Davis;  three dedicated brothers,  Ricky (Meche) Morgan, Don Morgan, and Ronald Morgan, all of Gadsden, AL.;  a special nephew, Sheddrick Davis, Birmingham, AL;  a faithful cousin, James (Susie) Adams; a loving godson, Jason Smoots; a caring and devoted caretaker, Ms. Pat Smith; special friends, Sarah Huntley, Curtis Isom, Clarice Robinson, Shirley Hornsby, Bety Walker, and Jerome Croft, and Mrs. Delores Gadson, and a host of nieces, nephews, and extended family who will miss her dearly.   A very special thank you to Candace, Rhonda, the staff of Dr.  Akisanya, and the ICU nurses and staff at Riverview Regional Medical 
Center. 

I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith; Henceforth, there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give 

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Retia Monzia Morgan, please visit our floral store.