John E. Morton, Jr.

John E. Morton Jr. 84, of Starr, South Carolina, "made it to the beach" on May 25, 2026, in North Myrtle Beach with his family by his side, rubbernecking out the window, as always.

He left this world the same way he lived in it...with quiet strength, his boots still on, and at least one last sarcastic remark ready on his lips.

Born in Rockville, Connecticut, Jack was forged early. He answered the call to serve his country as a United States Marine, carrying the values of honor, discipline, and brotherhood with him long after he left the Corps. Whether on the parade deck or in the everyday trenches of life, he carried himself with that unmistakable Marine jarhead bearing, straight back, steady gaze, and a handshake that meant something.

To those who loved him, he was simply Dad, Popi, Honey or just Uncle Jack, he is the man who taught us the value of hard work, the importance of keeping your word, and how to stand tall even when the wind blew hard. He taught us how to live on the lighter aide of life, and how to enjoy humor even in our darkest moments. Above all, he taught us that family doesnt care about blood, that family sticks together, and never fights alone. 

Known for his sharp sarcasm and rough-around-the-edges humor that was sometimes gloriously over the top, Jack could deliver jokes and stories that would leave you laughing even while shaking your head. He didn’t sugarcoat much, and you always knew exactly where you stood with him.

He had a love for golf, complaining, Fox News, killing fire ants, procrastinating, making everyone laugh and smile at all costs...and a quiet way of making those around him feel safe and valued, even if he’d never admit it out loud.

Heaven needed a marine to keep watch, so he has gone to Jesus, joining his parents, John and Viola, sister; Jeannie, son; Jeffrey, daughter; Tonda, and a couple of top-notch pets. 

Jack is survived by his loving wife, Nancy, his children Hank (Trish), John (Melissa), Jay, Josh (Haley), and Christa, grandchildren Zechariah (Savvy), Matthew, Ethan, Landon, Gwenie K, and Sophie, Siblings Robert, Sandi (Bill), Sharon, Virginia, Ruth (John), Susan (Russell) and many, many family and friends who will carry his memory, and his best one-liners, forward.

A celebration of life will be held at a later time. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in his honor to Anderson Cancer Society. Once a Marine, Always a Marine. Ooorahh!

To view these details online or to offer words of comfort through the online guestbook, please visit www.burroughsfh.com

Burroughs Funeral Home and Cremation Service (843.651.1440) of Murrells Inlet is assisting the family with arrangements.

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.