Merle Elliott

Merle Elliott, 94, departed this life on Friday, November 12, 2010. Merle Elliott was born September 12, 1916 in Rankin, Illinois to W.T. and Lula Elliott. After living in Oklahoma for many years, he moved his family to Searcy, AR in 1958. He worked on the facilities staff of Harding University for 19 years before his retirement in 1982.

Merle's life was made full by his family, traveling, and outdoor activities. Having grown up during the great depression, his greatest concerns were the security of his family and education for his children. Merle found Searcy to be a place where he could realize these goals. He was a member of the Church of Christ and attended the College Church for more than 52 years. He also served as a deacon for a time.

Merle's family was his greatest joy. He is survived by his devoted wife Anita of more than 70 years. He is also survived by one daughter, Judith Outlaw and husband Morgan of Washougal, WA.; two sons, Phillip Elliott and wife Jamie of Lebanon, CT.; Gary Elliott and wife Cheryl of Searcy, AR. He is also survived by six granddaughters and one grandson and their spouses and eighteen great-grandchildren; one brother, Melvin Elliott and wife Jean of Kokomo, IN and one sister-in-law, Madelyn Smith of Searcy, AR. as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

Merle was preceded in death by two infant daughters, his parents, two brothers and four sisters.

Visiting hours will be held Sunday, November 14 from 6-8 p.m. at the Searcy-McEuen Funeral Home.

Funeral services will be conducted at 2 p.m. Monday in the Searcy-McEuen Funeral Home Chapel.

Interment will follow in Gum Springs Cemetery under the direction of Searcy-McEuen Funeral Home.

In Lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the charity of the donor's choice.