Mary Kathryn Merrill

Mary Kathryn Merrill, 95, passed away early Sunday morning on March 13, 2022. She was born May 20, 1926 in Emporia, Kansas to Hale and Alma Knight. The youngest of three children Mary was the baby of a loving family who grew up in the small town of Madison, Kansas. Her family later moved to Wichita, Kansas where she completed high school. She went on to attend college in Emporia, Kansas where she picked up valuable secretarial skills. Mary met the love of her life and future husband Jim Merrill who was attending Kansas University. They were married on August 29, 1948. Their only son Rick was born in 1951 before Jim’s graduation in 1952.

Mary, Jim and their son Rick, traveled the world for many years and lived in Africa and Europe, and shared many wonderful memories.

Later, Mary and Jim enjoyed a happy retirement in Harlingen, Texas. In the 1990’s they moved to Pecan Grove, in Richmond, Texas to be closer to their grandkids, playing golf, and entertaining close friends. Sadly, Jim passed away in 2006, and Mary sorely missed her husband. She moved closer to her family in Katy, Texas. Mary enjoyed her independence, and her friends and family while living at both Carriage Inn and Oak Park Resort. Mary truly loved the gatherings with her close friends, Betty, Hazel, Mary Ann, and David.

Mary was preceded in death by her husband of 58 years, James Edward Merrill; father, Hale Vernon Knight; mother, Alma Edith; sister Hester Honeyman and brother Hale (Stormy) Knight. Mary is survived by her loving son and daughter-in-law Rick and Patty Merrill; grandchildren, Robert Merrill and his wife Lauren, Sammy Merrill, and Christina House and her husband Ryan. Mary is also survived by many nieces and nephews, including Dianne and Don Hill of Sugar Land, Texas.

Mary’s Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, April 9, 2022 at 2:00pm at Oak Park Resort, 1921 S Mason, Katy, TX, 77450.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations should be made to the charity of your choice.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.memorialoaksfunerals.com for the Merrill family.