Dick Morley, creator of the PLC, modern HVAC controls, the people mover, antilock braking, and of course, the late, lamented floppy disk, is one of the unsung creators of the modern era. Without his inventions, modern manufacturing and computing would simply not be possible.
Behind Dick, and supporting him every step of his career, was a remarkable woman-- his wife Shirley. Without Shirley, Dick might never have left his safe job to be an entrepreneur inventor. So we owe much of Dick's legacy to Shirley, as well.
This morning, Dick sent me a copy of Shirley's obituary, from the newspaper. I am going to quote some of it here:
"Shirley resided in Mason (New Hampshire --ed.) for the past 40 years, and formerly lived in Bedford, Mass., for many years.
She was a political activist for most of her life. She served as selectman for the Town of Mason, was an EMT for the Souhegan Ambulance Service, a member of the League of Women Voters and a member of the Temple Mountain and Crotched Mountain Ski Patrol. In addition, Shirley was a world traveler who enjoyed visiting China, Europe, Greece, South America and the Galapagos Islands."
With Dick, Shirley raised more than 30 foster children.
She leaves a remarkable set of accomplishments. She will be missed.
Behind every great man is a greater woman.
