Seymor John Morey

With heavy hearts and much love, the family of Seymor John Morey announces his peaceful passing on Tuesday, March 3, 2026. John (87) entered the world on July 21, 1938, in Amsterdam, New York, he was the son of Frank Lancing Morey and Effie Marsha Spencer Morey Blackwood. He lived a life defined by service, craftsmanship and a deep devotion to his family.

At the age of 19, John answered the call to serve his country by joining the U.S. Navy, a career that would span 19 years of dedicated service. He began as a diesel mechanic and proud plank owner (initial crew member) for the commissioning of the USS John R. Perry (DE-1034) in May 1959. John married Betty Buley, the love of his life and partner for over six decades, on 10/24/1959. Together, they navigated the nomadic life of a military family, with John’s various duty stations taking them to Key West, Florida; Norfolk, Virginia; Rota, Spain; and Jacksonville, Florida.

Following his honorable discharge from the Navy, John pursued his Bachelor of Arts in Business. He dedicated the remainder of his professional career to the Department of Defense at NAS Jacksonville, serving as a Safety Gas-Free Inspector until his retirement in 1993.

Seeking the quiet of the countryside, John and Betty built their dream home on seven acres in Athens, Tennessee. John became a staple of the community, where his master carpentry skills, talent for rebuilding tractors and fixing anything mechanical were widely admired and appreciated. In their final years, they returned to Middle Georgia to be closer to family, finding rest and relaxation among friends at the Houston Springs Senior Community.

John was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Betty Morey and his sister, Nina Morey TenEyck. He is survived by their three children, Teresa (Richard) Woods, Sharon (Ray) Kirk, and Michele Morey; five grandchildren, Mathew (Andrea) Schutte, Melissa (Billy) Mitchem, Sarah (Justin) Brantley, Jason Woods and Sabrina (Tucker) Hardie; and eight great-grandchildren, Gavin Mitchem, James Keck, Sophia Keck, Coleman Brantley, Jolie Schutte, Wyatt Hardie, Ethan Hardie, and Chase Brantley. Nieces Bettylou TenEyck and Shannon (Chris) Lewis. He also leaves behind a host of extended family members and dear friends who will miss his steady hand and generous spirit.

Please visit www.simplycremationmiddlegeorgia.com to express condolences.

Simply Cremation of Middle Georgia has charge of the arrangements