James “Jim” Morgan, of Marblehead passed away peacefully on Sept. 23, 2025, at the age of 88, surrounded by his beloved wife, Maureen and their loving family.
Born in White Plains, New York, on Dec. 7, 1936, Jim was the son of John and Ruth Morgan. He attended Archbishop Stepinac High School before earning a degree in engineering from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in Troy, New York, on a full NROTC scholarship, where he also served on the admissions faculty. Following his undergraduate studies, Jim proudly served his country as a naval officer and admiral’s aide before continuing his education, earning an MBA from Harvard Business School in Cambridge.
After marrying Maureen and completing his graduate studies, Jim embarked on a distinguished career in venture capital that spanned decades and helped launch dozens of successful companies. He began at American Research and Development, where he had the privilege of working alongside Georges Doriot — widely regarded as a pioneer of modern venture capital. Jim later went on to found Morgan Holland Ventures and One Liberty Ventures.
Over the years, he served on numerous corporate boards, as president of the National Venture Capital Association, became CEO of a venture investment company, served on the board of trustees at Deaconess Hospital, and even returned to Harvard Business School to teach — a role he cherished.
Jim was a lover of knowledge and lifelong learner who believed deeply in the transformative power of education. He helped found and fund two independent Catholic schools — one for boys and one for girls — affiliated with Opus Dei, a personal prelature of the Catholic Church of which he was a longtime member and generous benefactor.
Jim also dedicated much of his free time to working with the International Federation for Family Development, frequently speaking at the United Nations on the organization’s behalf. He was deeply passionate about the vital role of the family in shaping a strong and healthy society.
In retirement, Jim remained curious and adventurous, traveling the world with Maureen, often with their children in tow. From camping in New Hampshire to cruising the Alaskan Inside Passage, biking the Camino de Santiago and rafting down the Colorado River, Jim embraced every journey with enthusiasm and joy.
Above all, he was a devoted husband, father and grandfather who took great pride in sharing meaningful experiences and lasting memories with his family.
Jim is survived by his beloved wife of 63 years, Maureen Morgan (née Rumazza), and their seven children: Gina Bishé (Steve), James Morgan Jr. (Pamela), Julie Bailey (Adam), Gregg Morgan (Christina), Louise Morgan (Scott), Stephen Morgan and Diana Morgan. He was also a proud and doting grandfather to his seven incredible grandchildren: Jeff, Derek, Casey, Kyle, Megan, CJ and Anna.
A funeral Mass will be celebrated at Our Lady Star of the Sea, 85 Atlantic Ave., Marblehead, on Saturday, Oct. 4 at 1:30 p.m. Interment will follow at Star of the Sea Cemetery, Marblehead. Visiting hours will be held from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 3 at Eustis & Cornell of Marblehead, 142 Elm St.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Jim’s memory may be made to:
Parkinson’s Fitness
c/o Keith and Linda Hall
46 Brittania Circle
Salem, MA 01970
Phone: 781-572-5918
