Donald Ray Merrell

Donald Ray Merrell, age 83, passed away peacefully on February 20, 2026, surrounded by family, leaving behind a lifetime of love, laughter, and hard work. Born on December 25, 1942, in Harlingen, Texas, Donald was a true Texan at heart. He lived many years in San Antonio, Texas, before later settling in Von Ormy, Texas, where he continued to do what he loved most-staying busy and helping others.

Donald began his working life at a flower shop before starting a long and dedicated career at Kelly Air Force Base, where he worked on airplanes. After retiring from Kelly, his passion for aviation led him to The Boeing Company, where he continued working on aircraft until his retirement. Even then, "retirement" never really slowed him down.

After leaving the workforce, Donald spent his days running around with his wife, working with wood, tinkering on cars, building things, fixing just about anything, and always lending a helping hand. If something was broken, Donald could fix it-or figure out how. He simply loved to stay busy and was happiest when he was creating, repairing, or helping someone else.

On June 26, 1964, Donald married the love of his life, Dianne Virginia Willis Merrell. They were married for 61 loving years. Their marriage was a beautiful partnership, filled with companionship, shared adventures, and countless breakfasts out together. Donald was known for his love of coffee and his joy in visiting with his breakfast friends-conversations that always included jokes, laughter, and his fun-loving spirit.

Donald was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He is survived by his beloved wife, Dianne Willis Merrell; his children, Ginger Lynn Merrell West and her husband Wesley West, and Charles Stewart Merrell and his wife Sonda Merrell; four grandchildren, Lynnae Deann West Molina and her husband Joseph Molina, Cody Wayne West, Colton Taylor Merrell, and Ashley Nichole Bose; and eleven cherished great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his brother, George Merrell.

He was preceded in death by his father, Robert Merrell; his mother, Kathryn Merrell; and his siblings, Anna Mae McGuire, Doris Yates, Albert Merrell, and Alton Merrell.

Donald had a personality that filled a room. He loved telling jokes, making people laugh, and bringing joy wherever he went. He was deeply loved and will be dearly missed by all who knew him. His legacy lives on in the things he built, the people he helped, the laughter he shared, and the family who loved him so much.

Visitation will begin on Tuesday, March 3, 2026 at 4:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. with an evening service to begin at 6:00 p.m. Funeral services will resume on Wednesday, March 4, 2026 at 10:00 a.m. with burial to follow at First Memorial Park Cemetery.

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