Orsel "Oz" McGhee Morrow

Orsel “Oz” McGhee Morrow, Sr. born August 3, 1922 in Des Moines, Iowa to Fred and Jane Morrow, departed this life on August 15, 2019. He attended North High School in Des Moines and graduated in 1941. Oz ran track at North, the 220- and 440-yard dash, winning many accolades. He furthered his education at Drake University, studying Podiatry and again ran track with the 220- and 440-yard dash. In 1943, Oz enlisted in the U.S. Army during WWII and served as a Staff Sargent. He received an honorable discharge in 1946.

Oz met the love of his life, Nellie, at Corinthian Baptist Church. From this union, 3 children were born, Orsel McGhee, Jr., Rickie Lee and Shelly Ann. Oz and Nellie were a match made in heaven and celebrated 68 years of marriage. They were blessed to serve as the fourth couple to reign as the Iowa Juneteenth King and Queen from 1997-1998.

Oz retired from Northwestern Bell Telephone Company after 39-1/2 years. He was a member of the Telephone Pioneers Club, Olympian Club at Drake University, Trustee Board at Corinthian Baptist Church, Board of Directors at Corinthian Gardens, and a faithful member at the John R. Grubb YMCA until the age of 90.

Oz is survived by his sons, Orsel, Jr., and Rickie (Collette); daughter, Shelly (Henry) Bagby; his siblings, Bettijane Kirkpatick and Geneva Arrington; 5 grandchildren; 3 (soon to be 4) great-grandchildren; and a host of extended family and friends.

Thank you, Ronnie Alexander for the loving care given to our father in his last years of life. Thank you for making dad the Domino King and showing him who catches the biggest fish.

Thank you, Dr. Robert Shires for your dedication and special house visits and chats about sports.

Thank you, Rev. Whitfield, Rev. Roy Ives, Deacons, Deaconesses, members and friends of Corinthian Baptist Church, Mother’s Board, Hospice Nurse’s, Candace Rose, Neighbor Denise, and extended friends that were so dear to our father, grandfather, great-grandfather, father-in-law and friend.

We have a lot to be thankful for and so many memories to share. Dad will truly be missed but not forgotten.

Print