In a landmark moment for the legal and faith communities, Judge (Rev.) John E. Morse, Jr. was sworn in as Chief Judge of the Eastern Judicial Circuit in Savannah, Georgia. He became the first African American to hold this prestigious role in the circuit’s history. The event in Savannah’s Otis S. Johnson, Ph. D. Cultural Arts Center, was a powerful testament to his enduring legacy of service, justice, and faith.
Judge Morse, appointed to the Superior Court by Georgia Governor Zell Miller in 1995, brings nearly three decades of judicial excellence to his new role. His most recent reelection in 2024 underscores the trust and confidence the citizens of Chatham County place in his leadership. Before ascending to the Superior Court, he served on the State Court bench, where he made history as the youngest Chief Judge in Chatham County and its first African American State Court judge.
A Dual Legacy of Service
While Judge Morse’s achievements in the legal realm are remarkable, his enduring commitment to his faith and pastoral service is equally distinguished. He has been a dedicated pastor for over 35 years and serves as Senior Pastor of Pleasant Grove African Methodist Episcopal (AME) Church in Hinesville, Georgia. His ability to balance these two profound callings reflects his deep commitment to justice, community, and spiritual guidance.
Judge Morse began his legal career as a law clerk to Superior Court Judges C. Cloud Morgan and Eugene H. Gadsden. There, he gained foundational experience shaping his future on the bench. He then served as a prosecutor with the Chatham County District Attorney’s Office and as Senior State Attorney with the Drug Prosecution Division of the Prosecuting Attorney’s Council’s Savannah Regional Office. His leadership extended beyond the courtroom. As the former President of the Council of Superior Court Judges, he demonstrated his dedication to advancing the judiciary across Georgia.
Educational and Personal Roots
A native Savannahian, Judge Morse earned his Bachelor’s degree from Georgia State University before obtaining his law degree from Mercer University. His professional and personal journeys reflect a steadfast dedication to service, education, and faith, embodying the ideals of justice and compassion.
A Trailblazer and Inspirational Leader
Judge Morse’s appointment as Chief Judge represents a milestone of progress and possibility. His journey from pioneering State Court judge to the helm of the Eastern Judicial Circuit inspires countless individuals who aspire to follow in his footsteps. His story is of resilience, faith, and an unwavering commitment to justice.
As the Chief Judge, he will continue to lead with the integrity and wisdom that have defined his career. Savannah/Chatham County and the entire Eastern Judicial Circuit celebrate his groundbreaking appointment, recognizing the profound impact of his leadership both on the bench and in the pulpit. The Pleasant Grove AME Church family is godly proud of him!
With his historic rise, the Rev. Judge John E. Morse, Jr. affirms the power of perseverance and service, continuing to shape the fabric of justice and faith in Georgia and beyond.
The Reverend Judge Morse is the husband of the Rev. Debbie Morse and the father of adult daughters, Jessica and Jennifer.
Congratulations to this amazing leader I’m so proud of you Judge Morse
Congratulations Judge Morse
Congratulations Pastor 👏👏👏
Awesome!
Congratulations Judge Morse!
Congratulations, my Pastor!
In the words of Oprah Winfrey, as “SOFIA” in The Color Purple, “DEY IS A GOD!”
Congratulations to The Honorable Reverend John E. Morse, Jr.
Great Man with a Great Spirit! What an historical accomplishment!