JASPER COUNTY, Mo. – The Bonner Springs community is mourning the heartbreaking loss of Jacob “Jake” Morby, 41, who was killed Friday afternoon in a tragic motorcycle accident just north of Carthage, Missouri.
According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the accident occurred on September 26, 2025, when Jake’s motorcycle ran off the roadway and overturned after striking a post. He was pronounced deceased at the scene by the Jasper County Coroner. Authorities continue to investigate the cause of the crash.
In Loving Memory of Jacob “Jake” Morby
To family and friends, Jake was far more than a victim of a tragic accident. He was a devoted husband, loving father, and steadfast friend who lived each day with kindness and purpose.
Jake leaves behind his wife and school-age children, who are now faced with an unimaginable void. He was the heart of his family, the one who always put loved ones first and ensured their lives were filled with security, laughter, and love.
Jake was the kind of person who lit up every room he entered. Known for his easy smile, steady presence, and willingness to lend a hand, he was deeply loved not only by his family but by friends and neighbors throughout Bonner Springs and beyond. For Traci, he was more than a husband—he was her biggest supporter, always encouraging her to pursue her dreams and standing by her side through every challenge.
A Devoted Husband, Father, and Friend
Those who knew Jake best describe him as the heart of his family. He was a devoted dad, the kind of father who showed up at school events, guided his daughters with patience and love, and made sure every day ended with laughter and reassurance.
He was also a loving husband whose bond with Traci was evident to anyone who saw them together. Whether through words of encouragement or small acts of kindness, Jake lived his life in a way that put his family’s well-being above all else.
“Jake was one of those people who made the world feel lighter just by being in it,” a family friend shared. “His loss is not only a tragedy for his family, but for everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.”
A Family Left to Carry On
Now, Traci faces the heartbreaking reality of raising her daughters without the man who was their protector and guide. Though she is strong, the weight of grief, combined with the financial strain of sudden loss, is overwhelming.
Friends, family, and the wider community have come together to ensure Traci and her daughters are not left to carry this burden alone.
Fundraiser Launched to Support the Family
In an effort to ease some of the financial stress, family friend Luz Swan of Bonner Springs, Kansas, organized a GoFundMe fundraiser. The goal is to allow Traci to focus on her daughters and the healing process without being consumed by bills or uncertainty about the future.
“This fundraiser is a way for friends, family, and the community to come together and help ease some of the financial stress she faces,” Luz wrote on the campaign page. “Every donation, no matter the size, will make a difference. If you feel led, please consider giving and sharing this fundraiser. Let’s surround Traci and her daughters with love, support, and prayers, and help carry them through the days ahead in the spirit of kindness and generosity that Jake always showed to others.”
Community Love and Support
The response so far has been a testament to Jake’s impact. Donations have poured in alongside heartfelt tributes from those who knew him as a friend, neighbor, coworker, and mentor.
Supporters shared memories of Jake’s warmth, humor, and generosity, recalling moments when he went out of his way to help others. Many echoed the sentiment that this is a chance for the community to give back to the family of a man who gave so much of himself to others.
Honoring Jake’s Legacy
As the family prepares to honor Jake’s life, the community continues to rally around Traci and her daughters. His legacy is not defined solely by the tragic accident that claimed his life, but by the countless acts of love, encouragement, and kindness he shared throughout his 41 years.
Jacob “Jake” Morby will be remembered as a man who lived with purpose, cherished his family, and touched the lives of everyone around him. Though his absence leaves an irreplaceable void, the outpouring of support ensures that Traci and her daughters are not alone as they navigate the difficult road ahead.