Paul Kem Morgan

Paul Kem Morgan (LCPL), an aspiring chef and long-time resident of Garland, Texas, died unexpectedly at the age of 55 on December 31, 2015, while at home with his family. Paul was born in Oklahoma City, Okla., on October 18, 1960, but grew up in Little Rock, Ark., where he attended school and graduated from Hall High School in 1978. While attending college, he joined the Marine Corps Reserves, where he served for 2 years and graduated as a Recruiter, Motor Transport Operator and Sharpshooter. In 2005, he moved to Dallas, Texas, because he had met the love of his life, Elena Mendoza Morgan, and in 2006, they were married. She had an adopted daughter, Ericka. Having already raised her as his own, Paul adopted Ericka on her 12th birthday in 2013, happily taking on this important responsibility. Paul was a devoted husband and father, and the consummate "family man." He worked many years in restaurant management, and had developed a love for cooking. So, in 2014, he enrolled in the Le Cordon Bleu Culinary School, and was quite close to graduating. Paul is survived by his parents, Paul and Bobby Morgan of Little Rock, Ark., his devoted and loving wife, Elena; his daughter, Ericka; his sister, Kay Steiger (husband Mike); his brother, Jay Morgan (wife LeeAnne); Ralph Mendoza (father-in-law); Mary Jo Zapata and Yolanda Mendoza (his two mothers-in-law); Monica/Dean Sanchez (sister-/brother-in-law); Adam/Lisa Mendoza (brother-/sister-in-law); Marty/Bertha Mendoza (brother-/sister-in-law); Adrian/Carmen Mendoza (brother-/sister-in-law); Joel Mendoza (brother-in-law); Maria/Marcus Peña (sister-/brother-in-law); and, numerous nieces and nephews, all of whom loved him dearly. The Viewing is scheduled for Monday, January 4, 2016, 6-8 p.m., and funeral services are scheduled for Tuesday, beginning at 2 p.m., at New Hope Funeral Home in Sunnyvale, Texas. Pastor Stephen Hatfield will officiate. Marty Mendoza will be speaking additionally on behalf of the family. Pallbearers: Josh Steiger, Dean Sanchez, Adam Mendoza (Honorary), Marty Mendoza, Adrian Mendoza, Joel Mendoza, Marcus Peña. Reception immediately following at the Garland Elks Lodge #1984, 3825 Duck Creek, Garland, Texas, 75043.