Although Mark Morley [Central '80] was a successful businessman, one of his greatest pleasures in life was helping kids. He felt strongly that team sports provided the skills necessary in social development and academic success. Kids in need always received his helping hand, as he felt that a little nudge could serve as a defining moment to a successful future.
"Mark was a person who liked to give, always helping out," says Carl Ettlinger, a friend of Morley. "He had a special place in his heart for underprivileged kids and charitable causes."
Morley died on Feb. 16, 2010 at the age of 48 after a long battle with cancer. He is survived by his parents, siblings, wife Cathy, and their four children who attend Parkway schools.
To honor him and his passion for helping kids in their athletic and academic endeavors, the Morley family established a scholarship fund through the Parkway Alumni Association. The PAA will distribute the funds to students through the Granting Dreams program. To receive a Dream grant, students must submit a request to the PAA that demonstrates a commitment to furthering skills, acquiring knowledge or experience, and participating in school- or community-related activities.
As a student at Central, Morley lettered in basketball, baseball and soccer. He later attended Baylor University and the University of Missouri, where he graduated with a business degree. He had a successful 25-year career in the home-building industry with Taylor-Morley Homes and the Morley Group.
Morley participated in several civic, industry and public boards and committees, including two terms on the board of the St. Louis Sports Commission. But coaching youngsters gave him the most pleasure. In fact, he coached many of his children's teams.
Matthew Gibbs, a student at Parkway Central Middle, played on a basketball team coached by Morley. To honor his coach, Gibbs has organized a 3-on-3 tournament in the spring of 2010 to benefit the MTM Fund. He hopes the tournament will become an annual event.
In the Morley family's memorial book for Mark, a friend noted that Mark continued to play with the neighborhood kids when he was ill, holding a ball in one hand and his chemotherapy bag in the other. Through the MTM fund, many children will continue to benefit from Morley's desire for the success of every child.
Donations to the MTM Fund can be made through the Parkway Alumni Association, 455 N. Woods Mill Rd., Chesterfield, Mo., 63017.
Click on the "donate" button below to make a donation to this fund online.