Merle Hackney Stewart

Merle Hackney Stewart, 81, of Apex, passed away on March 4, 2015. She was born on April 11, 1933 to the late Hubert Lee and May Couch Hackney. Merle, "Nonya" to her grandchildren, enjoyed writing poems, calligraphy, flowers, plants, and birdwatching. She was a member of a garden club and liked arranging flowers. She loved the beach, waves, and sunsets. She was a Cub Scout Den Mother and part of the original crew who started the Kerr Lake Art Society. Merle was a Stephen Minister and active in the United Methodist Women. Most importantly, she loved her family and friends. Her children and grandchildren were her life. She touched all who met her as she always thought of others and wanted to leave people with a happy heart and feeling good about themselves. Her philosophy in life was "Live simply, Love generously, Care deeply, Speak kindly, Leave the rest to God."

Merle is survived by her husband, Howard; daughter Bridget and her husband, Woody, and their children, Leslee and Phillip; son, Neal and wife, Pam, and their children, David and Laura; sisters, Bonnie, Cookie, and Sally. She is also survived by her four-legged baby, Sammi.

A memorial service will be held 2pm Sunday, March 8, 2015 at Apex United Methodist Church with a reception immediately following. Private burial will be at Chapel Hill Memorial Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Apex United Methodist Church, 100 S. Hughes Street, Apex, NC 27502.

Condolences may be sent through: www.brownwynnecary.com