Obituary of Wilford J. Morton

Wilford J. Morton, Jr., beloved husband, father, and friend, passed away peacefully on April 14, 2024, at the age of 85. He leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and kindness that will forever be cherished by those who knew him. Wilford was born on September 17, 1938, in Waltham, Massachusetts, to his parents Wilford and Cora Morton. From a young age, Wilford showed a keen interest in radio, a passion that would guide him throughout his life. After graduating from Boston University, School of Broadcasting, Wilford pursued his dreams by immersing himself in the world of audio engineering. He found his calling at WGBH Boston, where he became an integral part of the team, contributing his skills and expertise to countless productions that captivated audiences far and wide including Nova, Julia Child, Crockett’s Victory Garden, Zoom and This Old House. Wilford was a gifted pianist who went on to promote other musicians to whom he admired. especially Dave McKenna. He was very proud of his compositions “Sweet Elaine” and “Kellie Jo”. He produced public television’s first syndicated music series “Jazz Meets the Classics” featuring pianist/composer George Shearing. Supervised and mixed “Just Call Me Maestro” the life of Arthur Fiedler. He won an Oscar for Lover’s Quarrel with the World” a documentary on Robert Frost and an Emmy nomination for “Evening at Pops” with the Boston Pops Orchestra featuring numerous artists from every area of the performing arts for the Public Broadcasting Service. In 1982-84 he was media producer for Fairbanks Arts Festival, AK. Wilford shared 34 years of marriage with his devoted wife Elaine Darr-Morton. Their love was a source of strength and inspiration to all who knew them, and together they created a loving home filled with warmth, laughter, and hospitality. Wilford had a love for Maine and he and his wife spent many months enjoying the tide going in and out on their Cottage by the sea in Lamoine and taking many trips to Bar Harbor. They took many trips together including Cancun, Florida, Las Vegas, California, Virginia, Grand Manan, and London, England. Wilford is survived by his three sons, Wilford (Ladonna) of Waltham, Craig (Cheryl) of Otis and Dana (Kristie) of Quincy, daughter Kellie Jo of Easton, MA; stepson Joseph A. Darr (Tammy) of Charlottesville, Virginia; stepdaughter Karen Elaine Mason (Hugh) of Marshville, NC; brother-in-law Mike Karkut (Anne) of Polk City, Florida, sister-in-law Linda Ball (Roger) of Southampton, MA and several grandchildren. He was a loving and gentle man whose presence enriched the lives of all who knew him. Wilford had a remarkable sense of humor, which he lovingly passed on to his children. His quick wit and playful spirit brought joy and laughter to countless moments, creating cherished memories that will endure for generations to come. Memorial services to celebrate Wilford's life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to NEPM (New England Public Media) or Tanglewood, organizations that were dear to Wilford's heart. Wilford J. Morton, Jr. will be dearly missed but never forgotten. May he rest in eternal peace.