Laurens County Mourns the Loss of Local Legend Robin Morse

Laurens County is grieving the loss of a beloved man, Robin Eric Morse, who passed away on Thursday, August 8, 2024, at the age of 71. A man whose life was synonymous with service, dedication, and community, Morse’s legacy is one that will continue to resonate throughout the county for generations to come.

A Life of Service and Dedication

Born and raised in Clinton, Robin Morse was the son of the late Tilman “Putt” Morse and Ruby Hawkins Morse. From a young age, he displayed a strong sense of duty and commitment, which would go on to define his life’s work. After graduating from Clinton High School, he joined the Clinton Army National Guard, serving for six years. He furthered his education by earning an associate’s degree in criminal justice from Piedmont Technical College and a bachelor’s degree in human resource management from Southern Wesleyan University. Morse also graduated from the prestigious FBI National Academy in Quantico, Virginia, a testament to his dedication to law enforcement.

Decades of Service to Laurens County

Morse’s career spanned over four decades, during which he served the communities of both Clinton and Laurens in various capacities. His roles included working with the Laurens County Sheriff’s Department, the South Carolina Highway Patrol, and serving as the Chief of the Laurens City Police Department. He culminated his full-time career as the Director of the Clinton Department of Public Safety. Even after his official retirement in 2018, Morse continued to give back to his community by serving as a Laurens County Deputy Coroner, a first responder for the Joanna and Mountville Fire Departments and working part-time with Laurens County School District 56 and Firmin Ford.

His extensive career was marked by numerous accolades and achievements. In 2008, Morse served as President of the South Carolina Police Chief’s Association, and in 2014, he was appointed by the Governor to the Law Enforcement Training Council for the South Carolina Criminal Justice Academy. One of the most poignant moments in his career came in July 2011, when he was awarded the Purple Heart, 36 years after being shot in the line of duty—a powerful reminder of the sacrifices he made for his community.

A Community United in Appreciation

On June 3, 2024, the community came together to honor Morse in a deeply moving and spontaneous show of appreciation. A parade was organized outside Prisma Laurens Hospital, where Morse, battling pancreatic cancer, was brought outside to witness a procession of first responders from across Laurens County. Surrounded by family and friends, Morse watched as fire trucks and police vehicles passed by, each a symbol of gratitude for his decades of service. The event was a powerful testament to the impact Morse had on those around him, and it gave the community a chance to express their love and respect for a man who had given so much.

Reflecting on the event, his son Eric Morse, who works with the Laurens City Fire and Mountville Volunteer Fire Departments, shared, “My father has always been a pillar of strength and dedication in our community. His commitment to service is something I’ve strived to emulate in my own career. Seeing the first responder community come together to honor him is a testament to the profound impact he’s had on all of us.”

Tributes from Community Leaders

The outpouring of support continued after Morse’s passing, with tributes from local leaders highlighting his profound influence. Sheriff Don Reynolds expressed his deep condolences, saying, “Robin always stood for what is right, and to the end, he fought a valiant fight. Well done, Chief. You will be missed.”

Clinton Fire Chief Jeromy Marshall reflected on the life of Morse saying, “Robin Morse was the definition of dedication and service. His commitment to our community set a standard that will continue to guide us. We’ve lost a true hero, but his legacy will live on in the lives he touched.”

Clinton Police Chief Sonny Ledda added, “We in Laurens County and the first responder family lost a great man today. Thank you, Robin Morse, for your service behind the badge and in our community. Godspeed, Chief.”

Laurens Police Chief Heath Copeland echoed these sentiments, remarking, “Chief Morse was more than just a leader; he was a devoted Christian, a loving husband, and a father who inspired all who knew him. His unwavering commitment to our community, his faith, and his family will never be forgotten.”

Laurens Mayor Nathan Senn also paid tribute to Morse’s legacy, stating, “The City of Laurens owes Chief Morse a debt of gratitude for his years of service, not only as our police chief but for his ongoing service to the Laurens community.  I was fortunate to have the opportunity to receive guidance from him as a new mayor, and the affection he held for the people of our city and our police department left a lasting impression on me.  He was beloved by so many of his officers, and, of course, his family.  Our hearts and prayers are with them. The courage he showed during his recent illness was inspiring, and whether it is because of his strength through adversity or because of his service to the community, his life and legacy will be remembered for generations.”

Clinton Mayor Randy Randall reflected on Morse’s contributions, saying, “Robin Morse was a cornerstone of our community, a man whose life was dedicated to service and the well-being of others. His leadership, compassion, and unwavering commitment to the people of Clinton and Laurens County will be remembered with deep respect and admiration.”

Michael Bolick, Chief of Cross Hill Volunteer Fire Department, echoed the sentiments of many who had the privilege of working alongside Morse. “Our community lost a true hero. Chief Morse had a moral compass of gold, which was always pointed in the right direction. He molded and shaped individuals into great police officers and firefighters through his leadership. He was a leader who would always make time for you and actually hear you out. He was a leader who would run a 2 a.m. fire alarm call or a 4 a.m. lift assist medical call. Anytime you needed a hand, he was always there. He truly gave our community his all.”

A Legacy of Faith and Family

Morse’s dedication to service was not confined to his professional life. He was an active and devoted member of Joanna First Baptist Church, where he served in various leadership roles, including Chairman of the Deacons and Chairman of the Safety Team. His faith was a cornerstone of his life, and he was known for his unwavering commitment to his church and its members.

Robin Morse is survived by his wife of 38 years, Barbara Byars Morse, and their children, Merial Roberts, Alyssa Longshore, Jessica Sullivan, and Eric Morse, as well as three grandchildren and other close family members. His funeral service will be held at 11:00 AM on Monday, August 12, 2024, at First Baptist Church of Laurens, where he will be honored with full Police and Firefighter Honors and Masonic Rites.

Laurens County has lost a true hero, but Robin Morse’s legacy of service, dedication, and love will live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know him.