Merle Elizabeth Elledge

Merle Elizabeth Elledge passed peacefully from this life on Friday, February 26, 2021. She was born on July 9, 1929 in Waco, Texas. Merle grew up in San Angelo and graduated from San Angelo High School in 1946. Following graduation, she worked at Shannon Hospital in the radiology department, and then later, for Dr. Harold Hightower, DDS, as his dental assistant. After moving to Houston in 1970, she worked in accounting at Houston Baptist University. She is preceded in death by her parents, Emil John Stefka and Mattie Elizabeth Lanmon Stefka, and her two brothers, William E. Rhodes, Leroy T. Rhodes, and sister Aline Lowrance. She was also preceded in death by her husband of 51 years, Johnnie E. Elledge. She is survived by her three children: Clara Talley, David Sartain, and Trisha Perkins; eight grandchildren, and thirteen great-grandchildren.

Merle was a member of the Belmore Baptist Church and a faithful follower of Jesus Christ. She enjoyed sewing and baking, and was known for her family’s favorites: divinity, chocolate fudge, and chop suey. She was an amazing speller, writer and sketch artist. Merle enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren, passing along her expertise and talents.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to the staff of Regency House, and especially to Susan, Candi, and to their aides for their loving care and devotion. They would also like to thank Kindred Hospice for their kindness, compassion, and support.

A memorial service will be planned for the family at a later date.

She will be deeply missed and will remain in our hearts and alive in our memories and traditions.