How old do you suppose Cinderella was when she met Prince Charming? If you are to believe the Disney version, she would seem to be 16 or 17, and the Prince about 19 or 20. The princess of this story is Louise Morrison, and the prince is Jimmy—or James Aubrey Morrison, Sr.
Louise was about 16 when she began corresponding with thedashing, young Marine who was stationed in Guam, in 1947. For two years, the letters crisscrossed the South Pacific, as the two shared details of their families, lives, thoughts, and feelings. When he returned to the States, it was only a matter of time before discussion of marriage entered the conversation, but her youth and his military commitment would prevent their union until June 9, 1950—ten days after her high school graduation.
It’s true that opposites DO attract, and the quiet, reserved gentle-man was complemented by his outgoing bride, who would, in his words, “talk to anyone”. In 1953 the first of their children was born, followed by a second in 1956. As with any relationship, the marriage wasn’t without times that tested them. Family responsibilities, health issues, and everyday problems of life strengthened their bond and prepared them for life together as they raised their young family. She was a stay as home mom, and Jimmy frequently traveled for his job. All the while, their trust, love, and dedication to one another made for a successful marriage of 57 1/2 years.
Jimmy experienced some health concerns on the morning of September 24, 2007, when he suffered a fall on their concrete driveway. A trip to the ER resulted in 18-20 stitches above his left eye. Additionally, a CT scan revealed several small bleeds in his brain. He was subsequently placed in intensive care for three days. After two months at rehab facilities, the family determined that home care would be best, and the love of Louise’s life began what would be a downward spiral. Even though Jimmy was totally dependent on his wife and family, he was able to convey his love for them and they for him.
During the time that he was at home, regular trips to Emory-Adventist for CAT scans were made. The family felt that the people who served them provided compassionate care and understanding, and they loved the small hospital environment. On December 28th, 2007, in a small room of the hospital's ICU, surrounded by his children and loving wife, Jimmy closed his eyes and slipped away. Though he didn’t say the words “good bye”, Louise knew that her beloved partner, her prince charming, had taken all the memories that they had made together and left them with her as his legacy.
She stood at the bedside, tears dripping on the crisp, white sheets, holding his hand and patting his brow. She hadn’t contemplated how she would ever say good-bye, so she didn’t. She simply whispered their amazing story as she grasped to hold onto him. She waited until the final moment, realizing that they would be parted until next they would meet.
Reflecting on this difficult time, Louise says, "Unless you experience this kind of loss, it's hard to convey the extent of sadness. But I will forever be grateful for the wonderful people I met at the hospital who were so caring and so attentive."
One of Jimmy's favorite expressions was "Give it time.” This is the philosophy by which Louise is now living her life. The love that began so many years ago will surely endure.