Reginald D. Morehead

Reginald Dawkins Morehead, a loving husband, father, and friend aged 75, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, December 4, 2024, in the Hospice Unit at Novant Presbyterian Hospital.

Reginald, known affectionately as Reggie, was born on May 18, 1949, to Isaiah and Ethel Morehead in Greensboro, North Carolina. A proud graduate of Johnson C. Smith University, Reginald earned a degree in Chemistry, which paved the way for a distinguished 42-year career at Duke Energy. As a Supervising Scientist, Reginald earned the respect and admiration of his colleagues, and he was known for both his professional expertise and kind-hearted spirit.

In 1981, Reginald married the love of his life, Jennie Maria Ann Green, at Friendship Missionary Baptist Church. Their marriage, built on love and faith, lasted for 43 years. They were deeply involved in the Marriage Encounter program, which strengthened their relationship and their friendships within the community. One of Reginald’s proudest moments was the birth of their only daughter, Bliss, after 12 years of marriage. He cherished being an active presence in her life, supporting her in everything from academics and ballet to their participation in the YMCA’s Adventure Guides program.

Reginald’s love for family extended beyond the home. He was a passionate supporter of scouting, where his unwavering commitment to Troop 63 earned him recognition as an inspiring scoutmaster. He received several prestigious accolades, including the Hornet’s Nest District Award of Merit, the Duty to God Award, the Mecklenburg Council Lifetime Achievement Award, and the Silver Beaver Award, the highest honor a council can bestow on a volunteer. For years, Reginald also led chemistry merit badge classes and took scouts to summer camp at Camp Grimes, where his guidance and mentorship had a lasting impact.

Reginald found joy in photography, particularly capturing sunrises during family vacations at the beach. He devoted time to developing his skills, attending workshops to deepen his knowledge of photography. He also enjoyed swimming, crossword puzzles, jazz music, bowling, and practicing golf at the driving range. Reginald loved quick getaways with Jennie to Asheville and enjoyed researching his family history with his sister, Melva, on Ancestry.com.

A man of deep faith, Reginald was nourished daily by scripture. He read his Bible, The Daily Word, and scriptures sent to him by Melva, other family members, and friends to keep his spirits high. Sunday prayer phone calls with his family were an integral part of his life, helping him stay connected to his siblings, in-laws, nieces, and cousins.

Throughout his career, Reginald remained deeply committed to his field of chemistry, traveling to numerous professional conferences and earning continuous recognition. He was an active member of the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) and the Water Environment Federation (WEF), and he always stayed abreast of the latest advancements in his field.

Reginald also dedicated his time and energy to his beloved Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, where he worked to uplift the African American community. Through his service, he supported civil rights, education, community service, and the advancement of disadvantaged communities. The fraternity provided him with a deep sense of brotherhood, lifelong friendships, and a strong social network.

Reginald fought a courageous battle with colon cancer beginning in 2016. Though his illness ultimately progressed to a point where no further treatments were available, he faced this challenge with strength and grace, fully aware of how deeply he was loved by his family, friends, colleagues, and medical team.

He is survived by his wife, Jennie; his daughter, Bliss; his brother, John; his sisters, Sylvia and Melva; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents.

Reginald’s legacy of love, leadership, and service will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.