GREENSBORO, N.C. — The Greensboro community is reeling from the heartbreaking loss of William Perry Morgan, a cherished 64-year-old theater professor and director of the Musical Theatre Program at Greensboro College, who died in a tragic car accident on Friday evening.
The accident occurred around 5:28 p.m. near the intersection of Pembroke Road and Chatham Drive. According to the Greensboro Police Department, Morgan was driving his Ford Focus sedan eastbound on Pembroke Road when the vehicle veered off the roadway at a dead end. The car struck a barrier before continuing into a wooded area, where it collided with a tree. Despite the swift response of Greensboro Police, Greensboro Fire Department, and Guilford County EMS, Morgan was pronounced dead at the scene. Authorities have stated that impairment does not appear to have been a factor in the crash, which remains under investigation.
Morgan was a towering figure in the Greensboro College community, known for his extraordinary talent and unwavering dedication to the arts. As a professor and director, he inspired countless students with his passion for theater and his ability to nurture creativity. Beyond his professional accomplishments, Morgan was celebrated for his compassion and mentorship, leaving an indelible mark on those fortunate enough to learn from him. His ability to connect with students on a personal level made him a beloved figure, not only within the college but also in the broader theater community.
Greensboro College released a heartfelt statement mourning Morgan’s passing, describing him as “deeply loved and respected” and a vital part of both the institution and the wider arts community. Colleagues and students alike have shared stories of his kindness, his infectious enthusiasm, and the profound influence he had on their lives and careers.
As the community grapples with this devastating loss, plans for a memorial service to honor Morgan’s life and legacy are in the works, with details to be announced at a later date. For now, Greensboro College and its students hold tight to the memories of a man whose light touched so many, forever shaping the world of theater and the hearts of those who knew him.