Pecos community mourns passing of legendary swim coach Terri Morse

The Pecos community and beyond is honoring the life and legacy of beloved swim coach and mentor Terri Morse, who recently died after more than three decades of shaping the lives of countless local swimmers.

Morse was born in Midland in 1956, grew up in Kermit and began swimming at age 7. She would later win the gold medal in the breaststroke as part of the Bellaire High School (Houston) State Championship Swim Team, before shining at Stephen F. Austin University as both a swimmer and coach. After moving to Pecos in 1985, Morse became the legendary coach of the Pecos High School Swim Team, which under her guidance racked up 41 district titles, 17 regional championships, six regional runners-up, 6 4A state championships, and 3 UIL State top 5 finishes.

She earned the prestigious Theron Pickle Outstanding Swim Coach Award in 2006, and the NFHS State Coach of the Year Award and National Section Swim Coach of the Year Award in 2011.

“Terri Morse’s passion for coaching and her deep love for her swimmers were evident in every aspect of her career,” said Daniel Alvarado, Reeves County Director of Digital Media, in a media statement. “She often reflected on her journey with the sentiment, ‘I got to live my dream.’ Her legacy is defined by a life of service, teaching, and unwavering support for the generations of swimmers she cherished.”

Morse is survived by her brother, Mike Morse of Houston; her dear friend and assistant coach, Joan Capshaw; as well as hundreds of swimmers who she considered family; and her beloved pets, including her spaniel, Ellie, and rescued cats Smokey, Patches, and Banana.

A memorial was held Aug. 17 at First Methodist Church, followed by a remembrance at the Reeves County Civic Center. In lieu of flowers, contributions are being made to an award founded in Coach Morse’s name at WesTex Community Credit Union or to the Pecos Animal Shelter, reflecting her enduring commitment to both her athletes.