Sharon Kay Bentley Merkl

Kay was born in Birmingham, Alabama on March 23, 1962 to Bill and Mary Bentley. She is the youngest of three children and the only girl.

Kay was preceded in death by her parents, Bill and Mary Bentley, and her brother, Hal Bentley. She is survived by the love of her life, Danny, her husband of 39 years; her daughter, Lauren Williamson (Keith); son, Daniel Merkl (Sarah); grandchildren, Braxton and Peyton Williamson, and Bentley Merkl; brother, Ernie Bentley (Paula); along with a host of nieces and nephews.

Kay graduated from Minor High School and received an Associate Degree as a Certified Medical Clinical Technician from the University of Alabama at Birmingham. She used her degree and worked as a Certified Medical Assistant at Simon-Williamson clinic for many years. She had a passion for raising a family so when they were blessed with their first child, Danny and Kay made the decision that Kay would become a stay at home mom.

Kay was a member at First Baptist Church of Pleasant Grove, Alabama, where she was involved with children’s choir and student ministry. She went on many mission trips over the years.

Visitation will be Thursday, December 28, 2023 from 1-2 p.m. at Ridout's Southern Heritage Funeral Home, Pelham, Alabama, followed by A Celebration of Life Service at 2 p.m. at the funeral home, 475 Cahaba Valley Road, Pelham, AL 35124. Burial will be at Southern Heritage Cemetery, Pelham. Dr. Daven Watkins and Dr. Buddy Gray will officiate.