Carroll Lenardo Morton Jr.

OBITUARY In loving memory of Carroll Lenardo Morton, Jr. "Shanka" Carroll Lenardo Morton, Jr., affectionately known as Shanka, departed this life peacefully while sleeping on Monday, April 29, 2024. Born on December 31, 1973, in Richmond, Virginia, to proud parents Carroll and Corliss Morton, Shanka's journey was marked by resilience, love, and an unwavering spirit. Shanka's early years were infused with faith, as he accepted Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior at Rising Mount Zion Baptist Church at the tender age of 12. He pursued his education within the Richmond Public School system, graduating proudly from George Wythe High School's class of 1994. Sports were a cornerstone of Shanka's life. From his earliest memories, he embraced the thrill of competition, excelling in softball and basketball. His athletic prowess was celebrated when he received a gold medal for basketball in the US Special Olympics. Additionally, he proudly served as a member of the JROTC during his high school years, demonstrating his commitment to discipline and service. Shanka's professional journey reflected his determination and adaptability. He began his career as a seasonal employee for the US Postal Service before transitioning through various janitorial roles. However, his life took a challenging turn after a violent attack left him with a traumatic brain injury. Undeterred, Shanka fought valiantly, emerging from an eight-month coma to begin the arduous journey of recovery. Despite facing several incidents where he was struck by vehicles, Shanka's indomitable spirit shone through, with the family often joking that Shanka had "nine lives." In his later years, Shanka found solace and care at Riverview on the Appomattox nursing home in Hopewell, Virginia. Despite battling COVID and enduring numerous hospital stays, his resilience remained unwavering. Throughout his time there, Shanka continued to touch the lives of those around him with his infectious smile, boundless laughter, and unconditional friendship. Shanka leaves behind a legacy of love and cherished memories. He is survived by his grandfather, Raymond Jones; stepmother, Robin Franklin-Morton; sisters, Cherjuana and Jade Morton; brother, Cassidy Morton; nephews, Chequan Jones (Nicole), Christopher Jones, Justin Jones, Quichaun Mallory, Mykah Morton; nieces, Brittany Jones-Cole, Chynna Mallory, Jaylah Morton; a host of great-nieces and great-nephews; great aunts, Sylvia Brown, and, Marie Hart; uncles, Frank Morton, Sr., and Jerry Lee Morton; devoted aunt, Venetta Taylor-Simmons; aunts, Apryl Morton-Ross, and, Bettina Jones; devoted cousins, Andre Taylor, Sr. (Merika), Chappel Slaughter, Chifawn Taylor, Chenise Simmons, Chanda Hannah, Tracy Gray, Deborah Gray, S. Izeta Wade (Eric); and a multitude of cousins, other relatives, and friends.

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Carroll Lenardo Morton Jr.

December 31, 1973 - April 29, 2024