Merle Virginia Varner, 86, went to her heavenly home Friday, October 7, 2022. She died peacefully at home surrounded by loved ones. She retired at the age of 80 after 30 years at Michael’s Arts & Crafts. She was a member of Dayton Baptist Church and later attended Fellowship Baptist Church. She was an avid gardener, quilter, crafter, and cake decorator who shared her gifts with those she loved.
Merle was cherished by those who called her mom, sister, and “Grannat”. She set an incredible example of how to be strong and faithful. She will be forever loved and dearly missed by everyone who had the privilege of knowing her.
She is preceded in death by her husband, Charlie Varner; two sons, Scott and Lance Varner; a grandson, Austin Varner; her parents, Jarrett and Georgia Milam, as well as two brothers and three sisters.
She is survived by her daughter, Amy Jo Reather of Huntington and one son, Britt Varner and his wife, Diana of Conway. She is also survived by eight grandchildren, Curtis Varner (Jessi), Cody Varner (Alecia), Shelby Varner, Jacob Varner, Colby Varner, Logan Reather, Landan Reather (Fayth) and Jacob Carter. Other survivors include her sisters, Ann Griffith, Doris Hearron, and Cindy Tuttle; as well as two step grandchildren, two great grandchildren and two step great grandchildren.
Funeral service will be 10 a.m., Tuesday, October 11 at Fellowship Baptist Church in Witcherville with burial at Dayton Cemetery under the direction of McConnell Funeral Home of Greenwood. Rev. Gary Martin will be officiating. Visitation with the family will be Monday from 5 – 7 p.m. at the funeral home.
Pallbearers will be grandsons and a great grandson.
