I’m Ashlee Morgan, reaching out with a heavy heart to share the story of my beloved husband, Senior Chief Petty Officer (ret) Dennis Joe “Joey” Morgan Jr., a decorated U.S. Navy Special Forces combat veteran. Dennis served two tours in the Persian Gulf during the First Gulf War, earning honors for his bravery. Combat wounds left him with a lifetime disability. One that he never complained about and would often say how much worse others had it so he wouldn’t burden the VA.

Dennis was only diagnosed a few weeks ago, but the cancer, diagnosed as service-related, moved faster than we could have imagined. My husband’s fight ended this morning at The University of Utah Medical Center. I held him up until his last breath. Dennis is also survived by his three adult daughters.

Dennis’s last wish was to ensure I can remain in the house we’ve built together—a place filled with love and memories. And that it was the most important thing I could do in his final days was to figure out how, but there wasn’t any time. So, I’m here and asking for help now.

This aggressive cancer has turned our lives upside down and now over. Medical bills, lost income, and unfinished home projects and repairs threaten our financial stability. My own health challenges further complicate our situation, limiting - not eliminating - my ability to work and adding to our medical costs. Together, these burdens make it difficult to see a future here.

I’m humbly asking, in Dennis’ name, for your help to raise any amount to complete critical home repairs, cover mortgage payments, and manage ongoing medical and living expenses. Your support will honor Dennis’s service and his final wish to secure my future in our home. We had a plan but it did not have contingencies for this.

Every donation, no matter the size is helpful. If you can’t contribute, sharing our story is a meaningful gift.

Thank you for standing with us during this heartbreaking time. I’ll keep you updated on the journey and how your kindness makes a difference.

With deepest gratitude,

Mrs. Ashlee Morgan

with Cowboy and Annie (our two border collies)