The City of Tallahassee has officially renamed Municipal Way to honor Major James Morgan, Jr., a trailblazer in law enforcement whose distinguished career spanned nearly five decades. At a ceremony this past Monday, local law enforcement, city officials, family, and the local community gathered to commemorate Morgan’s legacy and celebrate the street’s renaming as a tribute to his enduring impact.
“Captain Morgan was just more than a law enforcement officer. He was a mentor and a trailblazer, and he certainly shattered the glass ceiling,” Carolyn Cummings said, Chairperson of the Leon County Board of County Commission. “He broke barriers, being the first African American to be promoted as captain at the Leon County Sheriff’s Office.”
Major Morgan Jr, also known as “Jimmy,” started his career at the Leon County Sheriff’s Office during the peak of segregation, becoming the third Black deputy hired by the agency in 1967.
Despite facing many challenges early on, Morgan shot up the ranks with his grit and unwavering determination to make his home safer. He became the first African American to hold several key
leadership positions, including Detective, Captain, and Jail Administrator. He also served in the Internal Affairs Unit, where he set new standards for accountability and ethics.
“James Morgan Jr, was a dedicated, trustworthy, committed, conscientious and competent law enforcement professional who served with dignity, distinction and honor,” Jacqueline Perkins said, a representative of the Florida Civil Rights Museum and a close friend of major Morgan.
“His work ethic was superior to most, and he set the standard for excellence.”
Throughout his career, Morgan was known for his professionalism and quiet leadership, commanding respect from colleagues and community members alike. Even after he retired, he continued to serve his community, returning to LCSO briefly and later dedicating 13 years to the Gadsden County Sheriff’s Office.
Major Morgan’s incredible dedication to true justice has left a true mark on the city of Tallahassee, and the law enforcement community.
In addition to his career, Morgan was a family man, a devoted husband to Joann for 61 years, and a father of four. A man of faith, he was an active member of St. John Missionary Baptist Church, where he served dutifully as an usher until his health declined. His family described him as humble, dependable, and deeply committed to his community.
“Major James Morgan inspired me to work in law enforcement,” Lieutenant Ashley Mills said. “We have a lot of blacks that have ranked in this area that never would have had the opportunity if he hadn’t gone through what he went through.”
Morgan’s career and character left a lasting legacy, not just as a pioneer in law enforcement but as a quiet leader who made a profound impact through his actions.
Now that very same street in the community he loved and served so deeply, carries his name, a testament to his unwavering determination, passion, and service.
It not forever stands as a reminder that through true hard work and grit, we all can make a difference within the community.