Marylee Merryman "Together Again"

Marylee Merryman, 87, of New Philadelphia passed away on Tuesday, April 8, 2025, surrounded by love at Park Village Southside in New Philadelphia, following a period of declining health.

Marylee was born at home in Uhrichsville to Leone (McConnell) Shipton. She dedicated her life to her family and loved with a fierceness and devotion that became the foundation for a close-knit and vibrant family. A 1956 graduate of Uhrichsville High School, she further pursued her education at Kent State University where she would go on to meet the love of her life, John M. Merryman. She married John on January 3, 1959 and they spent 42 wonderful years together until his passing in February 2001. She poured her heart into her three beloved children, six grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren with another one expected in June. She was supportive of all of them in their activities and was extremely proud of each and every one, carrying her husband’s memory with her and finding joy in the family they had built together. 

Marylee was a devoted homemaker. For many years, she served as Volunteer Coordinator at the coffee shop at Twin City Hospital in Dennison. She led the Merry Movers exercise class at the Tuscarawas County Senior Center where her kind and welcoming nature touched the lives of all whom she encountered. She formed many lasting friendships and was loved by all who knew her for her fiery spirit and her knack for making others laugh with her quick wit and unfiltered opinions. 

Marylee was a former member of the First United Methodist Church in Uhrichsville and more recently attended the First Christian Church in New Philadelphia. 

Surviving are their three children, Marty (Diane) Merryman, Beth (Jeff) Graham and Holly (Tim) Staley all of New Philadelphia. Six grandchildren, Justin (Belinda) Merryman, Dr. Lindsey Merryman, Sara (Joey) Stephens, Tanner (Hanna) Graham, Nicole (Mike) Fink and Nathan (Taylor) Staley; nine great-grandchildren; a special sister-in-law Dr. Sally Hobson and her family; in-laws, Barb and Jerry Mambuca and several special nieces and nephews. In addition to her husband, Marylee was preceded in death by her mother, Leone (McConnell) Shipton, and two sisters, Betty Pittis, Helen Wright and their spouses along with her dear Dachshund, Penny. 

In keeping with her wishes, cremation care is to be provided by the Linn-Hert-Geib Funeral Home at New Philadelphia and a private graveside service will be held. 

The family would like to think the entire staff at Park Village Southside at New Philadelphia for the excellent care and support that Marylee had received.