Aileen Joyce Morse

A bold woman with strong conviction and an enduring love. A woman of principle and deep family kinship, who learned from life and lived it well.

Aileen was a courageous and confident woman, often willing to take risks and stand out—qualities born from a life of challenges faced with unwavering strength and resilience. Born on October 1, 1935, at California Hospital Ward in Los Angeles, California, to Harry J. Miller from Canada and Ida Surkees from Minnesota, she was raised with a sense of determination and independence. She shared a close bond with her older brother Owen Miller, who became a trusted advisor and confidant during her early years.

Aileen met her beloved husband, Stanley Morse, while she was a sophomore at Fairfax High School. It was true love at first sight for her. She set sights on capturing Stan’s attention, and her persistence finally convinced him to take her out. Their love story blossomed from that youthful romance. In January of 1956, Aileen graduated from Los Angeles City College with an Associate in Arts degree. On August 26, 1956, she and Stan were married at the Sportsman’s Lodge in Los Angeles, sharing more than 55 years of love and devotion.

When she became a mom—a lifelong wish—Aileen sought inspiration from the influential people in her life on how to treat others and raise her family. She approached life as a lifelong student and learner, growing wiser with each experience and always seeking ways to improve herself and those around her.

Despite her glamorous exterior, she was a simple woman—often seen in her khakis and cottons. She loved giving to the poor and caring for others. A talented cook, her holiday gatherings were filled with the aroma of potato latkes and homemade soups. Her gentle gesture of being the last to sit and eat was a testament to her lifelong generosity.

Aileen was a woman of faith, always generous in her donations to the Jewish temple and religious events. Her love of travel took her on major journeys every year with her beloved Stan, her Rabbi, and her community—exploring the world with curiosity and joy. Active and vibrant, she took pride in her health, often walking her cherished Georgie around her condominium complex, stopping to share warm smiles and kind words with neighbors. She enjoyed Pilates and her daily treadmill walks.

Her love for all animals, especially dogs and horses, was profound—they were her daily passion and her salvation. Horses and dogs brought her comfort, joy, and a sense of purpose that sustained her through life’s ups and downs.

Though private, she was always present for her family—offering love, support, and a sense of security. She is survived by her son, Todd Morse; her daughter, Leslie Morse (Marijke Maartense-Morse); granddaughter Rebecca Degioanni (Christopher Degioanni and great-granddaughters Lilyan and Lila); and nephews Scott and Hugh Miller.

Even at 89, lying in her hospital bed, she displayed the resilience and strength that defined her life—an extraordinary woman who lived long and well, with conviction, optimism, and love.

Services will be held on Tuesday, July 1, 2025 at 12PM at Hillside Memorial Park, (800) 576-1994.