Frederick “Fred” Morgan
Frederick (Fred, Freddy) Eugene Morgan Jr., age 73, of Zanesville, Ohio, was called home on Monday, April 13, 2026, from Mount Carmel East Hospital in Columbus, Ohio.
He was born January 20, 1953, in Zanesville, the son of Frederick Morgan Sr. and Leota (Smith) Morgan. He was a graduate of Zanesville High School and later retired from The Shelly Company. He dedicated his life to horse training and harness racing, a passion woven through his family bloodline for generations.
Fred leaves to mourn his passing and cherish his memory his son, Todd (Lynnlee) Morgan; six grandchildren: Alexis Morgan of Columbus, Ohio; Tinsley Morgan, Triton Morgan, Tolin Morgan, Khloe Funk, and Connor Funk of Zanesville. Siblings: Sheila Clurksy of Copperas Cove, Texas; Beth (James Sr.) Payton of Prosper, Texas; Melanie (Kenith) Croston of Centerville, Ohio; and Melissa Morgan of Zanesville. Several nieces and nephews, including Michele (Marvin) LeDay of Killeen, Texas; Cynthia (Ric) Hanson of Killeen, Texas; James Payton Jr. of Bakersfield, California; Jason (Jay) Payton of Prosper, Texas; Morgan (Deshawn) Westmoreland of Centerville, Ohio; and Taylor Ray of Springboro, Ohio. One uncle, Sheldon Smith of Zanesville. His harness racing brotherhood includes cousins David and Jack Morgan; John Holman; a cherished friend who was like a brother, John Ryan Melsheimer; and countless other friends.
In addition to his parents, Fred was preceded in death by a granddaughter, Taliah Morgan; grandparents, Lewis (Pete) and Wanda (Harvey) Morgan, and Cecil and Cleona (Dalton) Smith; and a host of uncles, aunts, and cousins.
We would like to offer a heartfelt thank you for the outpouring of love and support from our extended family, friends, and the care team at Mount Carmel East.
In keeping with his wishes, Fred chose a caring cremation. A celebration of life will be held at a later date.
Bryan & Hardwick Funeral Home, 2318 Maple Ave., Zanesville, is overseeing the arrangements. To share memories and condolences with Eric’s family, please visit www.BryanHardwickFH.com.
