IFN Staff

JayLynn Morrison celebrated his 103th birthday on May 1, 2025.

Morrison was born on May 1, 1922, to Madie Morrison in Statesville. His grandmother was Ellen Rankin, and he had two sisters, Clara Morrison Gabriel and Garnell Morrison Hill.

He graduated from Morningside High School in Statesville and earned a bachelor’s degree from Johnson C. Smith University. During his time at JCSU, he played on the basketball and tennis teams. He earned the nickname “Speedy” because of his calm and slow-moving demeanor.

After graduation, Morrison moved to Newark, N.J., and married the love of his life, Louise. Both were public school teachers in Newark. After retiring, they enjoyed traveling, going to sporting events, playing tennis and gardening. They shared a life together for over 65 years.

Morrison currently lives in Newark.