Donald Curtis Morse

August 11, 2021
Donald Curtis Morse

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Donald Curtis Morse, 59, of Williamsburg, Virginia passed away on August 11, 2021. Mr. Morse worked for the US Joint Staff Directorate for Joint Force Development (J-7) as Chief of the Allies and Partners Force Development (APFD) Division after retiring from active duty in the U.S. Marine Corps as a Colonel. He served for more than 25 years in a multitude of staff and command positions. One of the highlights of his career was Commander, 2nd Tank Battalion, 2nd Marine Division as well as participating in Operation Iraqi Freedom.

A native of Shelbyville, Kentucky, he graduated from Western Kentucky University as well as numerous Service schools, and is very proud to have received a diploma from the Norwegian National Defense College (Forsvarets Høgskole) in Oslo, Norway.  He was extremely proud of receiving the Spanish Navy Cross Merit Medal.

In addition to his outstanding contributions to our military, he was also an Associate Member of First Baptist Church in West Point, Virginia, and a member of both the US Marine Tankers Association, American Legion & other various organizations.

Mr. Morse loved God, watching trains, playing board games, and gem collecting, but most importantly he loved his family, friends, and spending time with his loved ones.

He is survived by his son, Curtis Morse, daughters; Lauren Morse, Macy Morse, Eliza Morse; parents Jonathan & Lula Morse, siblings; Linda Pursell, Deborah Morse, David Morse, Alex Morse; & multitude of extended family.

A service will be held on Monday, August 23, 2021 at 2PM at First Baptist Church, 414 Main Street, West Point, VA, 23181. Burial will take place at a later date at Arlington National Cemetery.

Bucktrout Funeral Home is assisting with services.


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  • August 22, 2021
    Penny Loukakos says:
    It was my honor to work with Don. Although it was for a relatively short time, his leadership, graciousness, and appreciation were evident from the first day we met. Running into him and chatting for a few minutes always left me refreshed. Inevitably, he would include in our conversations a heartfelt Thank You for the work our team was doing. I will miss the physical presence of his gentle spirit, our chats, and working toward a common goal, but know that he is in a place with no worries, and at peace because of all the good he has done for his country, family, and friends. There is no doubt that Don made a positive difference in all he touched. My condolences to his family and friends. May your wonderful memories, help you all through this difficult time.

  • August 22, 2021
    Gabriel Rilla (Romania) says:
    I found out with great sadness about Don's departure. It is a tragic loss and my heart is very heavy. I know I am going to miss him, his kindness and his warm-hearted friendship. Indeed, Don left his mark in our lives, and Alina and I are grateful we met him. We knew him as a proud and loving father. Don was a great friend, a true leader and a fine gentleman! May God rest him in peace and bless his family!

  • August 22, 2021
    Rick and Janie Daily lit a candle:
    Lit since August 22, 2021 at 8:44:35 PM

  • August 22, 2021
    Motoyuki Suzuki says:
    My sincerest condolence to his family. I still cannot believe that he passed away. He always took care of us in my FLO assignment, and I really appreciate his gentle and helpful efforts. Rest in peace.

  • August 22, 2021
    Guido Kraus says:
    The tragic loss of such an excellent officer, warm-hearted family man and loving husband is difficult to understand, thus, hard to bear. Don, we will miss you in so many areas of our lives, but be sure that we will never forget you as such an extraordinary Marine and so very open minded, always caring person. Thank you very, very much for your friendship and support. It was a great honor and pleasure serving together! Rest in peace, Semper fi, Guido