‘I have finished my course’ - Ronald Morgan’s headstone unveiled in Newport, Manchester cemetery

"I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith."

This verse, taken from 2 Timothy 4, was the epitaph inscribed on the late Ronald Egbert Morgan's headstone, serving a dual purpose - as his favourite piece of scripture, as well as a testament to how the late justice of the peace lived his life.

It was little wonder then that this mammoth of a man was revered by most not only because of his love for God, but also for his commitment to family.

And it was like a family reunion on Saturday, July 27, when friends and family, including Morgan's widow, Mary Joe, and some of his children gathered at the Bethabara Moravian church cemetery in Newport, south Manchester, for the unveiling of his tomb and headstone a little more than a year after his passing.

The late patriarch was remembered as a leader, teacher and a selfless giver in an intimate setting of people whose ties extended way beyond blood, standing in solidarity with the family of a man who always opened his home and offered support to those who needed it.

Reverend Barrington Daley, pastor at Bethabara, opened the proceedings at 4 p.m., sharing thoughts on the significance of the tomb building and unveiling, which he said not only marks the final resting place, but also serves as a monument to honour the deceased. A scripture reading from Psalm 90 1-12 was done by his wife, Michelle.

The unveiling followed shortly, with those who loved Morgan offering brief tributes to the man often referred to as 'Rev'.

He was remembered as someone who gives willingly, who never hesitating to offer a helping hand to those in need, whether community members, his fellow congregants, or even total strangers. His benevolence was such that he would voluntarily transport church members free of cost wherever they needed to go.

The memory of the community stalwart who raised children, who themselves became leaders, evoked in son Cecil the nostalgic feeling of a dad who fathered many and whose home was considered a refuge.

"I could take anyone home, but there was one condition - they had to have church clothes," said Cecil of his father, who died at 91 years old.

"Those who he didn't immediately love, he learned to tolerate."

Morgan was also a disciplinarian who insisted that education be placed on the front burner for all his children and for those to whom he acted as surrogate father.

"Daddy was an exceptional man who valued education. He always believed I was his brightest child, so I had no option but to be the brightest child," daughter Lorna quipped. It was that early prodding by her father which led her towards a career in academia.

The celebration of a life well lived continued with guests proceeding to the churchyard where, in true Morgan style, they were treated to fellowship, food and refreshments.