Randy Dale Morse

In Loving Memory of Randy Dale Morse Born in Beaumont, Texas Resided in Longview, formerly of Kilgore, Texas Age 72.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, August 8, 2025, at 2:00 PM at the Summit Club, located at 3700 Judson Road in Longview, Texas.

Randy Dale Morse was born to Ralph and Sadie Morse in Beaumont, Texas. From a young age, Randy showed a strong work ethic and entrepreneurial spirit. At just 14, he began working at Neely’s BBQ in Marshall, and by 15, he had joined Sonic Drive-In in Marshall, Texas—marking the beginning of a lifelong career in the food industry.

Randy left school at the end of his junior year to pursue what he affectionately called “SU—Sonic University” in Waxahachie. It was there that he met Lou Anne McKay, a fountain girl working alongside him while he fried onion rings. Eight months later, in April of 1972, they were married, beginning 53 years of joyful and loving memories together.

In March of 1973, Barry Seawright recognized Randy’s potential and sponsored his and Lou Anne’s venture to open the first Sonic in Kilgore. Over the course of his career, Randy owned seven Sonics and partnered in twelve others. His entrepreneurial drive extended beyond Sonic, as he also owned Video Village, Mikey’s Pig Stand, and Peddler’s Pizza.

Randy was passionate about sports, especially football. He was a devoted Kilgore High School Bulldog fan and a die-hard University of Texas Longhorn supporter, even dedicating a room in his home to UT memorabilia. He proudly attended the 2004 KHS State Championship and the 2005 UT National Championship.

Family was the heart of Randy’s life. Monday night dinners were a cherished tradition, with a rule that everyone arrive 30 minutes early to visit—being late meant trouble. For over 25 years, the family took annual vacations together, creating lasting memories. Every Wednesday evening for more than 30 years, Randy and Lou Anne met with close friends at the Back Porch in Kilgore. Even as his health and mobility declined, Randy never missed a Wednesday night dinner, always showing up with a smile and a story.

Known lovingly as “Big Dad,” Randy was a self-made man who lived life to the fullest. He never missed an opportunity to have a good time and always pushed through pain and discomfort to ensure his family experienced joy and togetherness. His legacy is one of love, laughter, and unwavering devotion to those he held dear.

Randy was preceded in death by his parents, Ralph and Sadie Morse, and his brother, George “Bubba” Ebard.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Lou Anne “LouLou” McKay Morse of Longview; his children, Christy Ann Morse of Longview, Sonica Morse Pruitt and her husband Ronnie of Aledo, and Michael Morse of Longview; his grandchildren, Ali Newland of Dallas, Macy and Lily Newland of Longview, and Dylan and Jake Wommack of Aledo. He is also survived by his siblings, Carolyn Govea of Fort Worth, Judy Smith of Marshall, Sharon Sanders of Marshall, Robbie Morse of Garland, and Karen and Todd Butler of Marshall. Randy leaves behind many nieces, nephews, cousins, and other loving family members and friends, including Jackie and Vicki Clayton, Terry and Ann Thrower, Ricky and Melody Mulanax, Joey McAlister, Larry and Tommy Cain, Jules Savony, Joe McKibbon, and Donnie Fitch.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Longview Community Ministries, 206 Second Street, Longview, Texas 75601.