Jeanette McKay Morrell papers, 1896-1983

Jeanette "Nettie" Isabel McKay Morrell (1879-1971) was a teacher, writer, traveler, artist, poet, church member, missionary, daughter, sister, mother, and wife. Her passion and devotion to the LDS Church streched across the continental United States during her service as a sister missionary in the Eastern States, and later supported her brother, David Oman McKay, when he was called to be president of the church on 9 April 1951.

Morrell was born 12 November 1879 to David and Jeanette Eveline Evans McKay. She was one of eight children, four boys and four girls. Morrell's paternal grandparents were from Sutherlandshire, Scotland, while her maternal grandparents had immigrated from Wales. Both sets immigrated to the United States largely due to the influence of the LDS Church. Morrell grew up in a devoutly spiritual LDS family, and she later served a mission to the Eastern States. As an active member of the church, Morrell served in many important positions of leadership, such as board member of the Young Women's Mutual Improvement Association, Relief Society teacher, and a counselor in the Relief Society.

Morrell was an avid reader and writer. She attended classes at the University of Utah in Salt Lake City, Utah, from 1894 to 1897. In 1897, she graduated with a three year degree in Normal School. She then began teaching in the Huntsville Schools, Huntsville, Utah, and later became the principal in 1899. In 1904, Morrell moved to Chicago, Illinois, where she could further her education at the University of Chicago.

Morrell had dated frequently, and corresponded with quite a few young men. During her stay in Chicago she met Joseph Rowland Morrell, who was studying to become a physician. Jeanette married Joseph Morrell in the Logan Temple on 19 June 1907. Joseph R. Morrelll was raised in Logan, Utah by an English father, Joseph Morrell and Margret Rowland. Joseph R. had earned his degree in medicine from Rush Medical College and the University of Chicago. He was a renowned surgeon and general practitioner, and as a result was often away from home on conferences, medical seminars, and on practice. This became difficult for Jeanette, who retired from teaching in 1908 so that she could start a family. The Morrells had four children: Joseph Roland Jr., Jeanette, David McKay, and Katherine.

During 1910 to 1911, the Morrells took a trip to Europe, where they stayed in Vienna, Austria. Morrell took advantage of the trip by enriching herself by writing and keeping a journal of the sites she saw and the people that she met.

In 1951, Morrell's brother David Oman, was called to serve as the president of the LDS Church. Morrell corresponded with him often. Morrell then wrote a book entitled Highlights in the Life of President David O. McKay, which was published in 1966. On 30 March 1971, Morrell passed away. She was ninety-two years old.