Merle Eileen Bascue

Merle Eileen Bascue of Richwood, Texas, went home to be with our Lord and Savior on August 12, 2025. She passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family. Merle was born on February 21, 1927 in Astoria, Oregon to Albert and Hazel Johnson.

The Greatest Nana, as she was affectionately known by her great-great Grandchildren, was a shining light in the lives of all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her journey on this earth was one marked by love, compassion, and an unwavering faith in God. Her passing has left a void in the hearts of her family, friends, and many more whose lives were touched by her.

Merle was preceded in death by her parents Albert and Hazel Johnson, younger brother Albert Johnson, and granddaughters Marlene Saxton and Carol Lindley. She is survived by her older sister, Marylou Ryan, three children, Suzanne Bridges (Duane), Gordon Bascue (Lisa Raven), and Mindy Lindley, four granddaughters, eighteen great grandchildren, twelve great-great grandchildren, many nieces, nephews, and cousins along with numerous friends and loved ones.

Merle will be remembered for her infectious smile that lit up every room, her sweet hugs that were passed out so generously, and her fun-loving sense of humor. She had a rare gift for making every friend that she met become part of her family. Her life was a beautiful example of how to love unconditionally and live for our Lord.

Merle loved sharing her many talents with others. Anyone that spent time with her was blessed by her ability to sew and craft. She had a calm patience for teaching sign language that made even the smallest of children eager to learn. Her willingness to teach sign language even stretched over to our four-legged family members. She spent many years in Bolivia as a Missionary, sharing her faith in God and building a church family with the local deaf community.

We ask that you remember Merle for the way she lived her life, and for the profound impact she had on the lives of those who had the pleasure of knowing her.

A Celebration of Merle’s Life will take place at the First Baptist Church of Brazoria in Brazoria, Texas on September 12, 2025. Visitation will begin at 10:00 am with the service following at 11:00 am.