Morton Lee Estep passed away peacefully at the age of 85 in Charleston, West Virginia, on December 11, 2025.

Born on February 22, 1940, to parents Harkless and Lucille Estep, Morton was raised in Ashland Kentucky as the third of six children. After initially attending the University of Kentucky's extension school in Ashland, he graduated from Trevecca Nazarene College in 1962 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Religion. He was the first member of his family to receive a college degree. Later in life, he received a Master of Arts degree in Counseling from West Virginia State University.

Morton met Carolyn Moore at Trevecca, and they married in 1962. During their 63 years of marriage, they raised two sons - Kent Alan and Bradley Keith - and served together in ministry at four congregations of the Church of the Nazarene in Kentucky, Florida, and West Virginia. After nearly 40 years of pastoral ministry at South Charleston First Church of the Nazarene, they retired in St. Augustine, Florida for 15 years.

A devoted pastor competitive golfer, and avid sports fan, Morton was a loyal husband, a loving father, a generous grandfather, and a good-humored friend to many. He was preceded in death by his wife Carolyn by only 15 days. "I am so proud of her", he once wrote, "and I know how fortunate I am to have the privilege of being her husband."

He is survived by their sons, Kent Estep (Kelly) and Brad Estep (Dawn); their grandchildren, Ross Estep (Mackenzie Walker), Christopher Estep, Hope Flavin (Andy), and Katherine Balch (Noah); and his sister, Kathy Givens (Steve).

A joint memorial service celebrating Morton and Carolyn's lives will be held on January 16, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. in the sanctuary of South Charleston First Church of the Nazarene with Dr. Bradley K. Estep officiating.

Arrangements are in the care of Keller Funeral Home, Dunbar.

www.kellerfuneralhome.net