Obituary of William L. Morse Jr.

William Leonard Morse, Jr., of Chestnut Hill, died from the effects of end-stage Parkinson's Disease at his home, surrounded by family, on the night of May 6, at the age of 71. Known as Lee to all who knew him, he was born and raised in Philadelphia. Lee was the consummate entrepreneur. Early on in his life he owned a women's clothing store called La Piuma, in Center City. Later, he developed an entire square block of vacation homes in Avalon, NJ. He then established Morsels, a line of women's wear featuring original silk screened designs, which were sold all over the country, and in his store on Nantucket. He again became involved in the construction industry, which lead to his becoming a realtor and ultimately the president and owner of Chestnut Hill's Eichler & Moffly Realtors. For Lee, Eichler & Moffly was truly an extension of himself, with those who worked there becoming part of his extended family. Tall, handsome and charismatic,Lee was comfortable engaging with all types of people. He was a warm and fiercely loyal friend who adored great conversation over a glass of J&B scotch. Always learning, his home reflected his love for art, music and books - and for animals, his two cats always near. He also held a special place in his heart for Maine and Nantucket. Lee improved the world around him in a sincere and humorous way that will be greatly missed by all those who knew him. His greatest source of joy and pride however was his family. It was that love that sustained him throughout his battle with Parkinson's, and it was that love that helped him to be at peace in the end. There will be a celebration of his life at Sunnybrook Golf Club on Thursday, May 26th at 6:00 in the evening. In lieu in flowers the family has asked that donations be made in his honor to the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research. A link for donations can be found on the website www.michaeljfox.org.