Harold "Sonny" Calvert Morehead, 90, of Paris, MO, passed away peacefully on Thursday, February 19, 2026. He was born on May 16, 1935, in Paris, MO, the son of Eula "Grace" and Beuford "Doc" Morehead.

Sonny graduated from Paris High School in 1953 and earned a basketball scholarship to Moberly Junior College, where he completed his associate degree in 1955. He continued his education at Truman State University, graduating with honors and later earning his Master's Degree in Health and Physical Education.

He married his high school sweetheart, Mary Elizabeth "Libby" (Baker) Morehead, and together they relocated to the Chicago area to teach and raise their family. Sonny devoted his career to education, serving as a Health and Physical Education instructor in Park Forest, IL. He built a respected and enduring legacy as the basketball, track and wrestling coach at Westwood (Forest Trail) Junior High. Known affectionately by his students as "Coach M," he mentored and inspired generations of young athletes. Sonny was granted a sabbatical to further his education at the University of Utah-Salt Lake City, where he pursued doctoral studies in health education. He returned to Park Forest to complete his distinguished teaching and coaching career.

Following his separation from Libby, Sonny married Leigh Hilemn of Park Forest, IL and made a home together for 10 years. After retirement, he returned to his childhood home in Paris, MO. There, he met his beloved Penny Petty and embraced an active and fulfilling life, raising horses and enjoying biking, jogging, walking and horseback riding — passions that reflected his lifelong love of athletics and the outdoors. He also cherished spending time at his ranch in Steamboat Springs, CO—a mountain retreat that brought him great joy and adventure.

Sonny will be lovingly remembered and deeply missed by his life partner, Penny Petty; daughter, Michelle (Nelson) Gibler of Centralia, MO; sons, Mike Morehead of Centralia and Jeff (Lura Briscoe) Morehead of Steamboat Springs, CO; grandchildren, Brice (Becca Holley) Gibler and Paige (Gavin) Clark; and three great-grandchildren, Gage, Elliott, and Boone. He also leaves behind many dear friends and countless former students and athletes whose lives he touched throughout his teaching and coaching career.

True to his nickname, Sonny radiated a delightfully "Sunny" disposition. He carried a warmth and optimism that brightened every room he entered. He was endlessly positive, always offering encouragement and was everyone's biggest cheerleader — whether on the court, in the classroom, or in everyday life. Coach M's steady belief in others lifted countless spirits and helped shape the confidence of so many.

Sonny's legacy lives on in the family he cherished, the students he guided, and the many lives he influenced through his dedication, leadership, and unwavering encouragement.

A private family graveside gathering will take place at a later date. Memorial contributions may be made to the Paris Senior Center, 112 Marion Street, Paris, MO 65275.