Lenita Ruth Johnson Merryman

Lenita Ruth Merrryman, age 65, of Morrilton, went to be with the Lord, Thursday, April 5, 2012. She was born to Wilbur Ruel "Strait" and Patti Ruth Johnson of Bigelow, Arkansas. Lenita was preceded in death by her father , Strait Johnson and former husband, Jerry Merryman, of Clinton, Arkansas. Survivors include her mother, Patti Ruth Pearson Johnson of Morrilton; sons, Jerry Wayne Merryman of Louisville, KY; Sean Merryman and Michael Merryman of Morrilton; daughters, Shelli (Randy) Crowell of Morrilton; Juli (Lou) Terry of Little Rock, and Janet Adelman of Louisville, KY; a brother, Travis Johnson of Nashville, TN; fifteen grandchildren and numerous great-grandchildren. Nita, as her close friends and family knew her was a retired registered nurse and of the Baptist faith. At a young age, Nita met Jerry Merryman and the two fell deeply in love. They were soon married and together, they raised six children. Along with the considerable responsibilities of a young family, Nita found the strength and dedication to complete her GED and pursue her dream of becoming a licensed practical nurse. She earned her LPN degree in 1978 from Petit Jean Vocational School and put her degree to good use serving the patients of Clinton Hospital. Yearning more knowledge, somehow, Nita managed to find the time and energy to balance work, family, and still more schooling to complete her Registered Nurse degree from the Baptist School of Medicine. She happily consumed nursing and gave most of herself to patients and co-workers for many years. As sometimes happens with even the most devoted of couples, Nita and Jerry drifted apart over time. Having independence, Nita found happiness being single, but endeared her bond with Elmer "Junior" Casley and, near the end, the support of her dear friend and companion Cliff Byrd. Nita was a loving devoted friend to all and never came across a stranger that she did not completely give her whole heart to. She would never turn away someone in need and was a mentor and second Mom to many. She left an indelible mark on the people whose lives she touched. She delighted at the sight of her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. Nita was a devoted Mother, Daughter, Sister, Wife and Grandmother, and friend…Her love and devotion knew no bounds. Her legacy will live through her children, family, and loved ones. Funeral services will be 11:00 a.m. Monday, April 9, at Harris Chapel with Rev. Fred Oaks officiating. Burial will be at Culpepper Cemetery by Harris Funeral Home of Morrilton. The family will receive friends one hour before the service. Pallbearers are Lou Terry, Randy Crowell, Cody Crowell, Ryan Drake, Kenneth Jennings, and Mike Mayo. Honorary Pallbearers are Bobby Gilbert, Cliff Byrd, Danny Casley, Tim Cutright, Jason Clark, and Ed Johnson.

Lenita Ruth Johnson Merryman

December 22, 1946 - April 5, 2012