Linda Lou Merrill

Linda Lou Merrill, passed away peacefully on May 13, 2026, in Garden City, Kansas. She was born on February 21, 1948, in Pocatello, Idaho, to Levi Lavell and Grace (Barnhart) Wheeler. Linda lived a life marked by devotion to family, faith, and her many talents.

Linda Lou (Wheeler) married her eternal companion, Lynn B. Merrill, on June 4, 1969, in Soda Springs, Idaho, and then eventually were sealed in the Salt Lake City Temple in 1973. To this union, they had had five children: Donna, Carrie, Steven, Cody, Morgan, and Jordan.

For many years, she was a well-respected Medicare/Medicaid patient advocate for Eastern Idaho Regional Medical center and then an office manager at a Greenwald Neurosurgical, where her professionalism and dedication were admired by colleagues and patients alike. Beyond her career, Linda Lou’s true joy came from her rich personal life. She was a proud mother and grandmother who cherished the time spent with her loved ones.

Linda Lou’s personality was as inspiring as it was warm. An amazing musician, she captivated those around her with her ability to play several genres on the piano. Together with her husband, she once shared the spotlight as part of a rock band, a testament to her vibrant and creative spirit. Her hobbies reflected her artistic nature and thoughtful mind: she enjoyed knitting, solving puzzles, and ceramics. A particular pastime close to her heart was tying fishing flies for the Snake River Guide Shop in Idaho, a craft she especially treasured.

Her faith was a cornerstone of her life, as she was a devoted member of The Church of Jesus Christ of the Latter-day Saints. This spiritual foundation guided her through life’s journey and sustained her in her final moments, which she spent peacefully surrounded by her devoted husband and loving children.

Linda’s family was central to her heart, and her legacy is carried forward by her husband of 57 years, Lynn B. Merrill; her five children: sons, Steven Cody Merrill and his wife Qusten of Iona, Idaho; Morgan Frank Merrill and his wife Kathryn of Anacortes, Washington; Jordan W. Merrill and his wife Lindsay of Salt Lake City, Utah; and daughters Donna Vest and her husband Kurt of Parowan, Utah; and Carrie Lynn Merrill and her husband Mitch Vanosdall of Garden City, Kansas. Linda also leaves behind one brother, Ronald Dee Wheeler of Clovis, New Mexico; one sister, Vivian June Angus of Bancroft, Idaho; eight beloved grandchildren; and numerous other relatives and friends who will deeply miss her presence.

Linda was preceded in death by her parents and her sister, Wynona Arlene (Wheeler) Brackenbury. Their memories remain alive in the hearts of all who knew her.

Graveside service will be held on Thursday, May 21, 2026, at 11 A.M. at Fairview Cemetery, Soda Springs, Idaho. A viewing will be held from 10-11 a.m. at Sims Funeral Home. Services conducted by Sims Funeral Home, Soda Springs, Idaho.

Her family and community remember her not only for the roles she embraced but for the grace, love, and remarkable talents she so generously shared. The quiet strength and joy she brought to those around her will be cherished and remembered always.