Elaine Ferguson Merrell passed away peacefully at her home on September 10, 2013 from a long-standing heart condition. She is survived by her husband of nearly 59 years, Shirl G. Merrell, as well as three married children, Gary Merrell (Lorrie), Nancy Glad (Paul), and Roger Merrell (Tammy), 12 grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren.
Elaine was born May 30, 1931 in Midvale Utah to Frank H. Ferguson and Mildred Turner. She attended schools in Salt Lake City and graduated in 1948 from South High School. She later graduated from LDS Business College and worked as a legal secretary.
She was married to Shirl G. Merrell on November 15, 1954 in Salt Lake City. Their marriage was later solemnized in the Salt Lake Temple on November 15, 1960. As a lifelong LDS church member, Elaine held many church callings that included teaching, service, and leadership. Shirl and Elaine served two church missions, one in Salt Lake City and another in Moscow, Russia. She touched the lives of many and provided an example of unwavering faith and service to family and friends alike.
In recent years Elaine was beset with many medical challenges after being a breast cancer survivor. Elaine would face every new challenge, medical or otherwise, with the question "What can I learn from this experience?" This example taught those around her to show gratitude for life's blessings and to face adversity with a cheerful heart. Elaine's sense of humor remained intact to the last days of her life as she attempted to cheer those who expressed sadness over her declining health. While she will be sorely missed in the days ahead, her legacy will extend generations into the future.
Funeral services will be held Monday, September 16, at 11 am in the Yalecrest II Ward, 1035 South 1800 East. A viewing will be held Sunday evening, September 15, from 6-8 pm at Larkin Mortuary, 260 E. South Temple.
