Beech Tree News Network

Nyla Hammers Morgan, 98, passed away Saturday, February 11, 2017. Our beloved mother, grandmother, aunt, cousin and friend will be greatly missed. Butler County has lost a legend.  Nyla was born March 16, 1918 in Morgantown, Kentucky, the daughter of Herman and Mary Ann Johnson Hammers. She married Thurman Thomas Moore (deceased)  and Clarence "Sug" Morgan (deceased). Nyla is the loving mother to daughters, Brenda Moore (Richard) Anthony and Glenda Moore (Eddie) Beck.

Nyla grew up in Morgantown as the daughter of the sheriff of Butler County. Her life was one of community involvement early on. She continued that service with a zest and a zeal that was unique to her. Her accomplishments are many, both as a businesswoman and as a civic leader. She built Nyla's Hotel Restaurant and Beauty Shop, was instrumental and worked tirelessly to establish the first Butler County High school band;  she was instrumental in founding the Green River Catfish Festival, founded the Morgantown Historical and Genealogical Society, researched and catalogued cemeteries throughout Butler County, wrote the book "Cemeteries of Butler County" and recorded thousands of names for genealogy. She was a true patriot and organized many veterans' programs through the decades.
    As an active member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Nyla faithfully served in many capacities throughout her life, including serving as the Mission Relief Society president over Kentucky, Tennessee & West Virginia for many years.
    Her life was one of devotion to her family. She guided her daughters as they developed their talents and testimonies. Her grandchildren and great grandchildren filled her life with happiness. She taught her family how to endure with faith and courage. We honor her for the legacy she left.
    Nyla was very helpful in many political campaigns. She helped people she believed in succeed in politics.  She valued her association with lifetime friends who supported each other. All who knew her knew of her love for Butler County and her people. Nyla had a sweet disposition, a righteous nature, and was truly an exemplary daughter of God.
    Nyla above all else loved her family including her extended family.  She is survived by her two daughters, 12 grandchildren, and 24 great-grandchildren.
    The family expresses appreciation to the devoted caregivers who helped Nyla for many years during her illness and to the Department of Veteran Affairs for the veterans' widows pension. We know she would thank everyone for any part they may have played in her life.  She truly loved Butler County and her people
    Funeral services will be at noon Saturday, February 18, at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints in Morgantown. Friends and family may call from 4 to 7 p.m. on Friday, February 17, at the Jones Funeral Chapel in Morgantown and from 10:00 to 11:30 a.m. prior to the services at the church. Interment will be in the Dan Johnson family cemetery.
    In lieu of flowers, the family kindly suggests contributions to the missionary fund of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints and to the Manna Program at the First Baptist Church in Morgantown.  Memories and condolences may be shared with the family online at www.jonesfuneralchapel.com.