of Mountain Home, AR
January 7, 1932 - May 19, 2023
Mr. Merlin Francis, 91, of Mountain Home, Arkansas passed away Friday, May 19, 2023 in Mountain Home. He was born on January 7, 1932 in Carroll, Iowa to Melvin and Elsie (Auen) Francis. He was married to Beverly (Penning) for 49 years.
Merlin was a Korean War Navy veteran, a 30-year retiree of John Deere Tractor Co. in Waterloo, Iowa and drove a bus for Mountain Home Schools for many years. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, sports (especially the Cubs), painting ceramics, watching western tv/movies and listening to ''real'' county and western music. He was a hardworking man who could be stubborn (in a good way) at times but very dedicated to his job and family.
Merlin is survived by 2 sons, Alan Francis (Laurie) and Brian Francis (Diana); 9 grandchildren, Sara Reed (Joe), Crystal Williams, Steven Williams, Mandy Gray, Nathan Francis (Natalie), Erin Ford, Darin Francis (Joy), Kerri Rusher (Collin) and Gage Davis; numerous great-grandchildren and 1 sister, Beverly Lindsay. He is preceded in death by his wife; parents; 2 daughters, Sharon Sim and Lori Bolding and 2 sisters, Erma Ross and Zella Holloway.
A visitation will be held between 1-2:00pm on Friday, May 26, 2023 at Baxter Memorial Gardens with graveside services to follow. In lieu of flowers, please send memorials to Wounded Warrior Project.
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4 Condolence(s)
Vicky and Brian Borzick
Monday, May 22, 2023
Our deepest condolences to the family. Life gets busy and we don't always keep in contact with our loved ones like we should; Merlin will be dearly missed, but we have fond memories to bring a smile to our faces. May God bless you during this difficult time.
Nancy Graner
Monday, May 22, 2023
Merlin, going to miss you and the times we had together. Now you will be busy keeping your Sisters from getting into trouble.Tell Aunt Erma hello along with Lori and Sharon. Tell Mom (Zella) that I miss her, give her a big hug and kiss from me and tell her I love her.💕Love you Merlin🥰
Tammy Holloway Ballo
Saturday, May 20, 2023
I'm so sorry to hear about Uncle Merlin and sorry . I can't attend the funeral I am sure my Mother was at the gate in heaven to greet him as your mom was waiting too. We will miss him . So sorry and prayer to the family.
Beverly Lindsay
Saturday, May 20, 2023
God bless you Merlin, I’ll miss your calls!! Had fun talking with you!! Love you!!