Deidra "Deede" Merritt

Deidra “Deede” Merritt passed away on November 8, 2016.  She was born one day before Elroy and ten years – to the day – before Jan…and Deede never missed a chance to remind her!  The family sends thanks to Jan for her loyalty, friendship, and shoulders broader than most because we couldn’t have do it without you and your wine.

Deede’s childhood was different than most, her parents Oren and Maxine Loyland were in the coin machine business and she spent much of her childhood traveling the area with them counting quarters and swapping 45’s in the jukebox’s or on the farm with Ralph and Betty Hoff…either of which she thoroughly enjoyed.

She was an amazing cook and always cooked for an army.  It wasn’t uncommon for us to have a houseful of people during the holidays, especially to anyone who could not make it home to their family’s because Deede always said “the more the merrier!”

Deede lived life on her own terms and didn’t care much what anyone thought of it.  If you were brave enough to disagree with her, you were informed of the exact location of where you could stick your opinion.  You could always count on her for an honest opinion, whether you wanted to hear it or not.

Throughout her life Deede worked at numerous taverns in the area and in the oil field business.  It was during this time she met Tippy, her best friend and partner in many many crimes (some of which still have yet to be reported!).  This friendship would last a lifetime, even through the handful of kids that were lucky enough to be raised by them, and it usually took both of them!  They definitely taught us life’s most valuable lessons and spoiled our babies!

After the oil boom it didn’t take much convincing for Mar Lar to put her to work for the City of Shelby, where she later retired from with her longtime co-worker, Priss who lived out the remainder of her days with Deede and exactly how she wanted.

Deede is survived by her favorite daughter Deven, her even more favorite granddaughter and the light of her life, Rachael, and her cat, Frankie all of who will miss her more than can be imagined.  Frankie will continue lavish lifestyle with Deven, Rachael, and their motley crew zoo.  Deede also leaves behind many friends and a legacy few can live up to.

Deede was greeted at Heaven’s Gate (yes, Heaven) by her father, it is unclear at this time if that is the actual name of the gate or the bar they are meeting at, nonetheless, she was also reunited with the friends that proceeded her and a grand time is being had by all.

At Deede’s request there will be no services.  A celebration of her life will be held at the Tap Room at 3 p.m. on Friday, November 11, 2016.