Lauren Elaine Mertz

Lauren Mertz, 56, went home to be with her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on Friday morning, November 21, 2025, after a two-year battle with cancer, passing peacefully and resting in the hope that carried her throughout her life. Lauren loved Jesus above all else, and her faith shaped how she lived and how she loved others. Cherished daughter of Ron, Sr. and Rosie Epps; devoted mother of Caleb (Mya Bartels) Mertz; dear sister of Melanie (Brian) Bishop and the late Ron (Becky survives) Epps; Lauren is also survived by her niece, nephews, other relatives and dear friends.

Her greatest earthly joy was her son, Caleb, whom she loved with her whole heart. Being his mom was one of God's sweetest gifts to her.

Lauren was a lifelong member of First Baptist Church of St. Charles, where she asked Jesus into her heart at six years of age. Her church family walked with her through every season, and she served faithfully; teaching Sunday School, singing in the choir, volunteering in Vacation Bible School and AWANA, and caring for little ones in the nursery. She was a steady, dependable friend who blessed many.

Lauren recently retired after 33 years of teaching in the St. Charles School District, with 30 of those years spent at Lincoln Elementary School. She poured herself into helping children learn to read, and her gentle spirit and joyful presence made her a light in the classroom.

She was kind, funny, generous, and family-centered. She loved reading, scrapbooking, and crafting, and she found strength and peace in God's Word throughout her life.

Though we grieve deeply, we rejoice that she is whole, at peace, and home with Jesus.

Donations may be made to Lincoln Elementary School for a memorial in Lauren’s honor or to First Baptist Church of St. Charles.

Lincoln Elementary School: 625 S. 6th Street, St. Charles, MO 63301