Ethel Lucile Morgan, 96, of Indianola, Iowa, passed away peacefully on Thursday, September 10, 2026.

Ethel was born January 7, 1930, in Summerset, Iowa, to Jacob and Gladys Higgins. She attended Drake University and dedicated much of her life to education. Ethel taught at Craven Country School among other rural country schools and later served as a substitute teacher for the Indianola and Southeast Warren school districts. She especially enjoyed sharing her knowledge and love of history with others, volunteering at Mt. Hope School during Pioneer Days, where she taught visitors about pioneer life.

On August 15, 1953, Ethel was united in marriage to Gaylord Morgan in Unionville, Missouri. Together, they built a life centered around family, farming, and their community. Ethel worked alongside Gaylord on the farm and in their dairy operation, embracing the hard work and simple joys of rural life.

Ethel had many interests that brought her happiness throughout her life. She loved raising German Shepherds and enjoyed knitting and crafts. She treasured traveling, taking trips to new places and experiencing all that they had to offer. Above all, Ethel cherished her neighbors, friends, and the many relationships she formed throughout her life. She will be remembered for her kindness, warmth, and genuine love for those around her.

Ethel is survived by her stepchildren, Gail Woods, James Morgan, and Peggy Northcutt; seven step-grandchildren; nine step-great-grandchildren; and her loving friend, Linda Ashburn. She was preceded in death by her husband, Gaylord Morgan; her parents, Jacob and Gladys Higgins; and her siblings, Opal McLeod, Jacob Higgins, Gladys Wohlgemuth, Verle Higgins, and Twyla Armstrong.

Ethel leaves behind a lifetime of memories, friendships, and lessons shared with others. Her love of teaching, family, community, animals, and the life she built with Gaylord will remain a lasting part of the lives she touched.

Services for Ethel will be held at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, September 16, 2026, at Overton Funeral Home in Indianola, with burial following at Indianola IOOF Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 4 to 7 p.m. Tuesday, September 15, at Overton Funeral Home.

Memorials in memory of Ethel may be made to Ackworth Friends Church or the Warren County Historical Society