Gloria A. Merriman

Gloria Ann Burchyett Merriman, 76, of Cape Girardeau passed from this life Wednesday, Jan. 3, 2024.

She was born April 24, 1947, to Raymond and Lois Colyer Burchyett in Cape Girardeau.

She was a 1965 graduate of Shawnee High School in Wolf Lake, Illinois. She worked as a dental assistant for many years before transferring to work at Southeast Hospital in Cape Girardeau. She was a loving wife to Kenny Merriman for 31 years.

In her younger years, Gloria was an active member of McClure (Illinois) United Pentecostal Church, where she was baptized in Jesus' name and received the Holy Spirit. At her passing, she was a member of Apostolic Promise Church in Cape Girardeau.

When Rachel, Gloria's daughter, was born, Gloria dedicated her life to being a wonderful and loving mother. As the oldest sibling of six, she was a beloved sister and aunt. Gloria was an excellent giver with a servant's heart, enjoyed being a part of any special occasion in the family and always wanted everyone to feel included. Her daughter (Rachel), nieces, nephews and Sunday school children always put a smile on her face. Whether it was supporting Rachel through the Navy or taking care of her husband and parents, Gloria was a constant cheerleader and loving supporter. In addition to loving God and people, some of Gloria's favorite things were sweet tea, chocolate, ice cream, traveling, shopping and Christmas.

She is survived by her husband, Kenny Merriman; daughter, Rachel Fowler of Cape Girardeau; siblings, Joan (John) Kellogg of Arthur, Illinois, Terry (Rhonda) Burchyett of Franklin, Tennessee, Mark (Janet) Burchyett of Buckeye, Arizona, and Sheri June (Robert) Moses, missionaries to Estonia and Russia; as well as three stepchildren, nine stepgrandchildren and many nieces, nephews and friends.

Gloria was preceded in death by her parents, Raymond "Bud" and Lois Burchyett; brother, Brad Burchyett (surviving wife, Audrey Burchyett): and nephew, Kent Burchyett.

The family requests donations be made to Lindsey Cemetery in McClure or Apostolic Promise Church in Cape Girardeau.

Visitation will be from 5 to 8 p.m. Friday, Jan. 5, at Ford and Sons Mount Auburn Funeral Home in Cape Girardeau.

A celebration of life will be at 10 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 6, at the funeral home, with Pastor David Kellogg officiating.

Online condolences may be sent at www.fordandsonsfuneralhome.com.