Merlin T. Edler Jr.

Merlin T. Edler, Jr. passed away at his home in Luling on August 8, 2024 at the age of 81. He was born in New Orleans, Louisiana, on April 21, 1943. After graduating from Redemptorist in 1961, he began pursuing his Bachelor’s degree. Shortly after, he was called to serve his country as a member of the United States Navy. He ended his military service in 1971 after returning from Vietnam. Merlin retired from U.S. Customs in 2003. He was past All State and All American Quartermaster of VFW Post 3750 and member of Knights of Columbus 9933. In his free time, he enjoyed bowling and watching sports (Saints and LSU).

He is survived by his wife of 61 years, Joycelyn Stentz Edler; daughters, Sherry Hartman (Brian) and Brandy Maher (Shawn); son, Merlin T. Edler III; sisters, Betty St. John (Bobby) and Darlene Bouvier (Ronnie); grandchildren, Ashley Owen (Joe), Jessica Theall (Will), Brian Hartman Jr. (Maddie), Daphne Hartman, Shawn Maher Jr. (Alyssa), Ethan Maher, Amber Edler, and Sara Edler; and four great grandchildren.

Merlin was preceded in death by his parents, Merlin T. Edler Sr. and Rita Grosch Edler Durio (Harold); and brother, Frank J. Edler; and great grandson Beckham Theall.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the American Cancer Society.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend a Funeral Mass in the chapel of Lake Lawn Metairie Funeral Home, 5100 Pontchartrain Blvd in New Orleans, on Friday, August 23 2024

at 2 PM. Visitation will begin at 12 PM. After the Mass, Merlin will be laid to rest in Lake Lawn Park.