Louis Hyde Merrill

Louis Hyde Merrill was born in Richmond, Utah, to Edgar Lionel and Alda Hyde Merrill on March 28, 1931. He was raised on a farm in Swan Lake, Idaho, along with his five siblings, Lucille, Betty, Lynn, Joan, and Patsy.

At 21, he left home to serve a two-year mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Soon after the completion of his mission, he met Myrna Love Petersen. On May 21, 1956, they sealed their love in the Salt Lake City Temple. Together, they built a life filled with faith, love, and family. They were blessed with 7 children, 46 grandchildren, 107 (and growing) great-grandchildren, and the anticipated arrival of their 1st great-great-grandchild. They had 49 beautiful years before his wife passed away.

He began a new chapter on April 8, 2006, when he married Beverly Prather Rifleman. With her, she brought Bruce Riffleman, Kurt Riffleman (Charo), Jeff Riffleman, three grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren. For 18 years, they have blessed one another with tender love and companionship. 

As a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, he declared his testimony and love for the Gospel of Jesus Christ to all within the sound of his voice. His great desire was for others to experience the same peace and joy he found in living a Christ-centered life. 

On September 12, 2024, Louis Hyde Merrill peacefully passed away at his home, surrounded by his wife and loved ones. His life was blessed by the love of an ever-growing family, friends scattered near and far, and his love for his Heavenly Father and his Savior, Jesus Christ. His posterity will be blessed by his legacy of faith, steadfastness, and unconditional love. Eternally, we are blessed to belong to a forever family sealed by his faithfulness. 

Louis is survived by his wife, Beverly Prather Rifleman Merrill; his children, Cindy Crane (Dave), Kevin Merrill (Tracey), Terri Turley (Scott), Brian Merrill (Sandy), Kenneth Merrill (Denise), Roland Merrill (Patti), Gina Shaw (Trent), 44 grandchildren, and 102 great-grandchildren. 

He was preceded in death by his wife, Myrna Love Merrill; granddaughter, Laurie Ann Merrill; grandson, Matthew Scott Turley; stillborn grandson, Braydan Leonard Merrill; grandson-in-law, Garet Barney; and great-grandson, Oliver James Merrill. 

As the final chapter of his earthly life closes, our hearts mourn, leaving evidence that we have loved and have been forever changed by Louis Hyde Merrill. We rejoice in knowing that one day, we will reunite. In that glorious moment, the piece of our heart that only he holds will be returned. Until then, may gratitude that our lives have been touched by this faithful man fill our hearts, and we each feel peace and healing as we choose to live in a way that honors his name.

Funeral services will be held on Thursday, September 19, 2024, at 2 p.m. at the Pleasant Valley 7th Ward Chapel, 5735 Crestwood Drive. Friends may visit with family on Thursday from 12 to 1:30 p.m. at the church. Interment, Woodbine, WA Cemetery on September 30, 2024.

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