Vale Tom Morgan
Just over five months since Doreen Morgan’s service of thanksgiving, we were back on 4 April 2024 at the same church — St Mary’s Anglican Church, Sunbury — to celebrate her husband, the Rev. Tom Morgan’s life of selfless service and ministry.
Reflecting his long life and deep involvement in multiple parishes and many organisations and groups, congregational numbers were so significant that several car parking attendants were required to direct attendees to the back of the church.
Tom’s large family included four children and their partners, eight grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren. His eldest son David delivered the eulogy on behalf of the family and lovingly reflected on the rich Christian life Tom had led. It was remarkable to hear how, after leaving school early to take up a railway apprenticeship, Tom went on to attend evening classes to earn his Leavers’ Certificate, then studied theology and became a priest. He even took lessons in singing, piano, and organ. A dedicated contributor to many organisations and committees, David reported that his father had only three free nights in any given month.
Tom was one of the earliest members of the Victoria Welsh Choir, joining in January 1987, and remained a dedicated member of the bass section until his sudden passing following an overnight ‘adventure’ in March. He always kept in touch with fellow members, visiting many in hospital over the years. In 2022, he made it a weekly ritual every Wednesday to drive from Romsey to visit ex-chorister (and fellow bass) Graeme Sanderson and Faleiry, who were in two different wards of the same hospital. After these visits, he would dine at McDonald’s before heading to rehearsal in Blackburn — without fail.
The service was jointly officiated by two vicars: the incumbent Rev. Matt Browne and Tom’s sister, the Rev. Lilian Morgan. Three congregational hymns were sung: Fight the Good Fight, And Can It Be, and Onward Christian Soldiers.
Faleiry Koczkar and Rushan Hewawasam shared conducting duties with the Victoria Welsh Choir, who performed Gwahoddiad (Invitation), the Welsh love song Myfanwy, and St Clement. At the conclusion of the service, as Tom’s casket was led out by his family, the choir sang him on his way with Sunset Poem, dipping their heads to the sun in respect and appreciation for the choir’s oldest and deeply beloved member.
A video of the service can be accessed via TJ Scott’s website: