Chelena Lynn Merriman

I had to wait 48 years to get my name in the paper. Chelena Lynn Merriman born on March 13, 1973, passed away in her sleep at home on Sunday 25 April 2021. Chelena Lynn Merriman was a graduate of McKendree University, served as a Government Civil Service employee for the Army, Air Force and Joint Special Operations Command. Upon retiring from Civil Service, Chelena continued her career as the Executive Administrative Assistant to the Chief of Police for Danville, Virginia. She was superseded in death by her Father James Jaffke, a Vietnam Marine Veteran and her Father-In-Law, James “Butch” Larry Merriman. Mrs. Merriman is survived by her Husband Larry Dean Merriman, her Step-Daughter Brianna Christine Merriman and her mother-in law-Bertha Lee Merriman, along with her sister-in-law Lisa Dawn Hodges and her Husband Lanny Hodges, her brother-in-law Robert Merriman and his wife Heidi Merriman plus various nieces and nephews. Chelena’s final wish was to be cremated and have her ashes spread out around several of her favorite places. She also requested in lieu of flowers that a donation be made to your local ASPCA or Cancer research. There will be a Celebration of Life in her honor at Collins Funeral Home, 30 Riverside Hwy, Bassett, Virginia on Saturday, May 1, 2021 from 12:00 to 2:00 PM. This will be a time for those who wish to come and share stories of Chelena’s life and how she made an impact on the life of others with whom she came into contact. This will not be a formal event, but a time for everyone to grieve and share the loss of this truly amazing lady. Chelena was always the person who preferred to be in the background and assist others in being able to soar and fly like eagles. All throughout her life you can see this in the impact she had on the lives of her family, her friends and her co-workers. As the Bible says, we are to go forth and sow His seeds among your travels. Chelena epitomized this in her life. From early on in her life and in her career, Chelena always sought out mentors to help her become the best at whatever she endeavored to do. She translated that skill and leadership to others by herself becoming a mentor to others and helping them to grow not only professionally but emotionally and spiritually in their own lives and careers. For those who had the pleasure of knowing or working with her; Chelena would tell you not to mourn her but to instead take the impact she had on your life and use it to impact others. By sharing your experiences with others, she continues to live. Due to Covid-19, wearing of mask and social distancing will be required. Online condolences at www.collinsmckeestonebassett.com Collins Funeral home at Bassett, Virginia is respectfully serving the Merriman Family.