Remembering Beloved Ruston Artist and Educator Mary K. Morse

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Mary K. Morse, a renowned artist and educator who taught at Louisiana Tech University for over 30 years, passed away on March 25, 2026 at the age of 84. A Celebration of Life is planned for April 25, 2026 in Ruston, Louisiana to honor her legacy as a talented painter, sculptor, and beloved member of the community.

Why it matters

Mary K. Morse made a significant impact on the arts community in Ruston and northern Louisiana through her decades of teaching, mentorship, and artistic contributions. Her passing is a loss felt by many who were touched by her warmth, creativity, and dedication to her craft and students.

The details

Born in 1941 in California, Morse earned her Bachelor's degree in Art History from Oakland University and her MFA in painting from Indiana University. She moved to Louisiana in 1968 and taught in the School of Art and Architecture at Louisiana Tech University until her retirement in 1999, also serving as the Director of the University's Art Gallery from 1980-1997. After retiring, Morse focused on creating bronze sculptures of human figures in Austin, Texas before moving back to Ruston in 2021 to be closer to longtime friends.

• Mary K. Morse was born on August 19, 1941.
• Morse earned her Bachelor's degree in 1963 and her MFA in 1967.
• Morse moved to Louisiana and began teaching at Louisiana Tech University in 1968.
• Morse served as the Director of Louisiana Tech's Art Gallery from 1980-1997.
• Morse retired from teaching in 1999 and moved to Austin, Texas, before returning to Ruston in 2021.
• Morse passed away on March 25, 2026.
• A Celebration of Life for Morse will be held on April 25, 2026 in Ruston, Louisiana.

What’s next

The Celebration of Life for Mary K. Morse will be held on Saturday, April 25, 2026 from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM at the Sundown Tavern Patio in downtown Ruston, Louisiana.