Obituaries : Merlyn Leroy Harrelson

Merlyn Leroy Harrelson

GARRISON: Merlyn Leroy Harrelson, 78, died Monday, January 13, 2014 at his residence following a brief illness.

A Funeral Service will be held at 11 a.m., Thursday, January 16, 2014 at Phillips Funeral Home Chapel, 212 E. 6th St. in Vinton, with Rev. David Gates officiating. Private Committal Services will be held. Friends may register at the funeral home from 9 a.m., until service time on Thursday. A memorial fund has been established.

He served his nation in the US Army.

Merlyn was born July 18, 1935 at Winthrop to Roy and Virginia (Cook) Harrelson.

On January 4, 1958 he was united in marriage to Sondra "Cindy" Lindsey in Vinton.

Merlyn was a self employed truck driver and had been employed at Northern Roofing in Cedar Rapids. He loved to watch wrestling and NASCAR racing. He also enjoyed playing double Pinochle, and working puzzles. His greatest joy came from spending time with family and friends and telling jokes.

He is survived by his wife, Sondra "Cindy" Harrelson of Garrison; his son, Gary (Roxie) Harrelson of Vinton; his daughter, Sharon (Brian Anderson) Valentine of Garrison; his grandchildren, Olivia Harrelson, Tiffanie Harrelson, Amanda Valentine, Amber Valentine, and Megan Anderson; his great grandson, Hunter Stewart and one on the way; his brother, Thomas (Sue) Harrelson of Shellsburg; his sisters, Anna Marie Kibbie of Shellsburg and Bev Lyons of Davenport; his brother-in-law, Lyle Naylor of Urbana; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his son, Randy, grandson Jason and twin sister, Merlene Naylor.

Condolences may be left at: www.phillipsfuneralhomes.com