MERRELL, Ned Lasell

Arizona Eastern Courier, Safford, AZ Wednesday, June 9, 2010 Ned Lasell Merrell, 79, passed away May 31, 2010, at his home in Duncan after a long battle with cancer. He was born in Virden, N.M., on March 4, 1931, and graduated from Virden High School in 1949. He married Jean Pierce on Jan. 26, 1951, in the Mesa Arizona Temple. They raised eight children together. Ned was a farmer in Virden; Rodeo, N.M.; Animas, N.M.; and Franklin. He taught school and coached in Virden, Rodeo, Animas, and Duncan. He also owned Merrell's Market in Duncan and later a janitorial business in Mesa. Teaching and coaching were his favorite jobs. Ned Merrell He was a member of the LDS Church and held many callings. He said the best thing he ever did was serve a mission for his church with his wife in the Rapid City, S.D. Mission. His life was filled with service. He spent many hours helping his children and also serving people who needed help in one way or another. He was a hard worker, and if he didn't have work of his own, he helped others with their work. Ned was accomplished in many areas, but he often said that his greatest legacy was his children and grandchildren. His son, Chris Merrell, preceded him in death. He is survived by his wife, Jean, and their children: Phyllis Barney (Leland), Colleen Lunt (Richard), Celia Pace (Sandy), Nancy Allred (Wade), Orson Merrell (Yvette), Adele Merrell, John Merrell (Lynnae) and Jim Merrell. He has 36 grandchildren and 54 great-grandchildren, making a total of 99 descendants. A memorial service will be held June 12 at 11 a.m. at the Duncan Stake Center. Ned was laid to rest May 31 in the Virden Cemetery.