Merna Dee was born on October 16, 1921 in Alden, Kansas to Joseph C. & Vada D. (Holmes) Vincent. She married Ralph Gilmore on September 5, 1945 in Alden, Kansas.
Merna was a devoted member of the Sunbeam United Presbyterian Church, where she was a member of the Women’s Association and taught Sunday School. She also invited neighbors into her home for over 40 years for a Home Bible Study. Merna was also a member of PEO, Chapter H; Mercer County History Forum; Mercer County Home Economists and the Mercer County Home Extension. She enjoyed 4-H, both as a member and as a leader; gardening; flower arranging and was known for her hospitality. Merna and Ralph traveled to all 50 states and various other locations, including Israel, a favorite. She was also known as the “Barn Lady” for her many programs and talk on barns.
Merna is survived by her husband of 71 years, Ralph; 3 daughters and sons-in-law: Marcia Dee & James Sparks of Winterset, IA; Glennys & Gary Doane of Downs, KS and Linda & Lee Tank of Bettendorf, IA; 9 grandchildren; 8 great-grandchildren and one lovingly expected. She was preceded in death by her parents; 1 brother, 2 sisters and a grandson, Nathan Sparks.
Merna Dee was born on October 16, 1921 in Alden, Kansas to Joseph C. & Vada D. (Holmes) Vincent. She married Ralph Gilmore on September 5, 1945 in Alden, Kansas.
Merna was a devoted member of the Sunbeam United Presbyterian Church, where she was a member of the Women’s Association and taught Sunday School. She also invited neighbors into her home for over 40 years for a Home Bible Study. Merna was also a member of PEO, Chapter H; Mercer County History Forum; Mercer County Home Economists and the Mercer County Home Extension. She enjoyed 4-H, both as a member and as a leader; gardening; flower arranging and was known for her hospitality. Merna and Ralph traveled to all 50 states and various other locations, including Israel, a favorite. She was also known as the “Barn Lady” for her many programs and talk on barns.
Merna is survived by her husband of 71 years, Ralph; 3 daughters and sons-in-law: Marcia Dee & James Sparks of Winterset, IA; Glennys & Gary Doane of Downs, KS and Linda & Lee Tank of Bettendorf, IA; 9 grandchildren; 8 great-grandchildren and one lovingly expected. She was preceded in death by her parents; 1 brother, 2 sisters and a grandson, Nathan Sparks.
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