Obituary - Loretta Loftus Morgan
Loretta Loftus Morgan, a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away on Thursday, March 28, 2024. Born in Lenoir County to the late Jack Edward Loftus and Sarah Dollie Smith Loftus, Loretta’s life was a testament to love and selflessness. She was preceded in death by her infant son, Jack Ronald White; her sister, Becky Gray and husband Charles “Spider” Gray; and her loyal fur companion, Kirby.
A beacon of kindness and compassion, Loretta touched the lives of all who knew her. Her unwavering spirit and boundless dedication to family were evident in every aspect of her life. As a retired hairdresser from Hullwood Beauty Salon, Loretta’s passion for hairstyling brought joy to her clients, alongside her dear friends that she thought of as family, Ginger Roddy and Norma Daniels, and work fur baby, Dusty Rose.
Loretta embraced life, finding joy in simple pleasures like riding on the boat with her family or indulging in Starbucks outings with her friend, Brenda Sasser. Line dancing and listening to country/gospel music was another source of happiness for her. Family traditions, including Mardi Gras celebrations with family and Sunday shopping trips with her sister, Louise, were cherished moments that exemplified Loretta’s love for her family and her vibrant spirit. Loretta was a professional at “burning up the roads” on her way to help a friend in need, help a stray animal on the side of the road, or driving to Bojangles to get a “senior” sweet tea.
Beyond her commitments to family, Loretta devoted herself to animal welfare, tirelessly volunteering with Lucky Cats of Kinston to rescue, save, and spay/neuter stray animals. As a member of Bethel Fellowship Church, she volunteered at events like Dinner Theater and other fundraisers, making a difference in the lives of others. Additionally, Loretta annually dedicated her time to the Saint Baldrick’s Head-Shaving fundraiser for childhood cancer, further demonstrating her unwavering commitment to making a difference.
Loretta is survived by her children, Donnie White (Robin), Lynn Hollis (Coleby), Tina Cannon (Chris), and Kyle Morgan; along with her grandchildren, Kaitlyn King, Coen Cannon, Claire Cannon, and Amber Best. She is also survived by the Love of her life, Ken Fankhanel, and her beloved fur baby, “Puppy.” Loretta leaves behind a legacy of love, and unwavering strength. She will be deeply missed by her sisters, Louise Dorsey and Joan Faulkner (married to Jimmy, the best brother-in-law ever), as well as numerous nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends.
Loretta conveyed her heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Bert Palmer, veterinarian and cherished friend, as well as to Martha Peoples, David Jones, Ronnie Matthews, and Greg Cauley for their enduring kindness and compassion throughout the years.
A celebration of Loretta’s life will take place on Monday, April 1, 2024 at 6:00 p.m. at Rouse Funeral Home, where friends and family will gather to honor her memory and share stories of her remarkable life. The family will receive friends following the service.
Online condolences may be expressed at www.rousefh.com. In lieu of flowers, Loretta requested donations be made to Lucky Cats of Kinston, continuing her legacy of kindness and generosity. Contributions can be sent to Lake Norman Lucky Cats Program, c/o Lake Norman Realty, 20117 West Catawba Ave., Cornelius, NC 28031 (252-361-1300). Arrangements are entrusted to Rouse Funeral Home, La Grange.
