South Portland, ME - John “Johnny” R Morton Jr., peacefully passed away on July 30, 2017 at his home in South Portland. He was born August 16, 1952 and grew up in North Vassalboro, Maine. He attended schools there and in Waterville. He worked for many years in North Vassalboro area, Freeport and Brunswick until failing health prevented his employment.
Johnny loved life and never considered himself as disabled. He excelled in Special Olympics as a child and young man. He loved bowling where he earned many trophies with Murphy Strikers Bowling team, rowing at Nana and Bimpy’s camp on Crystal Lake, playing guitar and harmonica. He especially loved music and especially playing country and boogie-woogie tunes with his Uncle Herbie. He was quick-witted and very funny. He also loved everyone around him with a passion. He knew no strangers.
Johnny was awarded for his service and contributions to expand services and opportunities for the developmentally disabled from 1991-1993. He was well-known in the disability rights programs.
Johnny was predeceased by his father, John R Morton Sr. and his mother Shirley Lander Morton Williams. He is survived by his brother William of Massachusetts and his sister Hope Morton Ewans and her husband Bill, of Riverview FL. He is also survived by many cousins, nieces and nephews; including the staff and friends at South Portland Nursing Home, who loved him dearly.
Johnny’s family sincerely thanks all the staff, doctors and friends at South Portland Nursing Home for all their love, patience and tender-loving –care during Johnny’s time with them. He dearly loved everyone there and felt they too were his family, especially his dear roommate, Wendell.
A celebration of Johnny’s life was held on October 14, 2017 for family and friends.