Meryle Esther Meyer Meyer Garr

Born June 12, 1924, Meryle Esther Meyer Garr joined heaven's throng early Sunday, September 1, 2013, in Virginia Beach, VA, where she resided with her son Alfred Garr, III and his wife, Dr. Cheri Garr, for the past 8 years. She is now rejoicing with many of her family including husband, Phillip Erby, a WWII serviceman who was killed in action shortly after marriage; her infant son, John Stephen Garr; and her husband of 53 years, Alfred Garr, Jr. Meryle will be remembered for her fun loving and gentle ways that touched and blessed thousands of people through the years. She is survived by her son and his wife of Virginia Beach; one sister, Ethel Gregg of Little Chute, WI; and numerous nieces, nephews, friends and ministry associates.

A viewing will be held from 4-6 p.m. on Sunday, September 8 2013, at Central Church of God in Charlotte, NC, followed by a celebration of life service at 6:00 P. M. and reception to follow in the Fellowship Hall.

In lieu of flowers, donations to a memorial fund can be made at merylegarr.com.

Meryle Esther Meyer Garr joined heaven's throng early Sunday, September 1, 2013, in Virginia Beach, VA, where she resided with her son, Alfred Garr, III and his wife, Dr. Cheri' Garr, for the past eight years. Born June 12, 1924, to Clarence R. and Gertrude Esther Meyer in Chicago, IL, Meryle enjoyed many hours of fun and play growing up with her sister Ethel, whom she often would talk into doing mischievous things. Reared in a God-fearing home, it seemed both sisters were destined to be in the ministry.

As a young woman, Meryle met and married pilot/serviceman, Phillip Erby, who was soon shipped out for military service in World War II. Tragically, Meryle was left a young widow when Phillip was killed in action a few months later.With unwavering faith in the Lord and a commitment to serve, Meryle , her sister, Ethel & friend, Dorothy Kirschki formed Chicago Land Fellowship Trio traveling all over the area ministering in churches, crusades and even the radio. Meryle also soon became the Chicago Sunday School Superintendent and spent many enjoyable hours promoting Christian education, a passion that enveloped her for the rest of her life & leading her to serve over 30 years on the board of Charlotte Christian School.At a national Sunday School convention held in Philadelphia in the fall of 1950, Meryle's life took an expanded direction. Following the death of his father, Reverend Alfred Garr Jr. was co-pastoring Garr Memorial Church in Charlotte, NC, with his mother. He prayed that if God brought the lovely Meryle to that convention it would be a sign she was to be part of his life! Alfred Garr, Jr. and Meryle Esther Meyer were united in marriage July 23, 1951, in Dayton, Ohio. For the next 53 years their marriage and ministry would take them around the world! They helped establish gospel works throughout Europe, India, and Africa. While Alfred ran the film cameras & sang, Meryle took all the still photos & played the organ. They also participated in crusades with well-noted ministers and worked for many years with Dr. Willard and Verna Cantalon. Meryle and Verna became life-long best friends. No doubt heaven will have time for them to do some "catching up!"

During this time, the Garrs continued to serve as pastors of Garr Memorial Church. Part of the church’s outreach included Camp Lurecrest in Lake Lure, NC, which was developed under the Garrs' leadership especially to minister to young people who had lost a parent during the war. Meryle served as activity director and cook there for many years. Thousands of youth mark this as the location where they formed a relationship with Jesus Christ, and many in full-time Christian service today recall making a commitment around the campfires of Lurecrest. Numerous ladies also remember the wonderful annual ladies' retreats Meryle organized. The Garrs continued as camp directors until their retirement in 1999.

Retirement did not seem to be in Meryle's vocabulary—that was for "old people!" In her 80th year, she accompanied her niece on a missions trip to the Sahara Desert, and although she came home ill from the trip, she felt it was well worth her effort—again demonstrating her love and compassion for people and her Lord.

One of Meryle's friends wrote the following acrostic of her life: Mischievous, Erudite, Real, Youthful, Loving, Endearing. Everyone who knew her would have to agree. Meryle will be remembered for her fun loving and gentle ways that touched and blessed thousands of people through the years. She loved a party and was always ready for fun and celebration!

Highlighting Meryle's life was the joy and delight of the birth of Alfred Goodrich Garr III on December 22, 1964. She adored him and treasured every growing memory as only a mother can. After Alfred Jr.'s homegoing, Meryle began staying with Alfred III and his wife Cheri at their home in Virginia Beach. She enjoyed many activities at Springbranch Church as well as her little dog, Bandi, whom she referred to as "her other son."

Meryle was preceded in death by her parents and childhood sweetheart, Phillip Erby; her dear husband, Alfred Garr, Jr.; and their infant son, John Stephen Garr. Meryle is survived by her son and his wife; her sister, Ethel Gregg of Little Chute, WI; and numerous nieces, nephews, friends and ministry associates. Following the memorial service, Meryle's earthly body will be laid to rest next to her dear husband, Alfred Jr., to await that day when we shall all be caught up together to meet the Lord in the air.

Online condolences may be made to www.mcewenfs.com.