Merle Harmon

Merle Clifton Harmon, a beloved husband, father, and music aficionado, peacefully passed away at his home in Lucien on August 22, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. Born on July 6, 1955, in Perry, Merle spent his life crafting a legacy of warmth, creativity, and dedication that will resonate in the hearts of his family and friends forever.

A proud graduate of Perry Public Schools, Class of 1973, Merle showcased a remarkable talent as a carpenter and later pursued his passion by owning and operating a music studio in Enid, Oklahoma. Renowned for his skillful hands and a melodious spirit, he played an array of instruments, including the guitar and piano, inspiring countless others to embrace their own musical journeys.

Merle's character was marked by his sweet, gentle nature. He was not only a hardworking man but also a fun-loving and warm dad and husband who always found ways to bring joy to those around him. His profound love for music was matched only by his devotion to his family, making him a cherished figure in their lives.

He is survived by his loving wife, Joyce Inselman, whose companionship brought him immense happiness. Father Coy "Buddy" Harmon and his wife Janet. Merle's legacy continues through his daughters, Sheila Anderson of Mississippi and Stephanie Slavens of Missouri, along with his sons, Ryan Harmon and Harley Harmon and his wife Hannah, residing in Enid. His grandchildren-Kaysha Watkins husband Michael, Brock Anderson, Jeffrey Deason, Tesla Brown and her wife, Kaylee, Havyn Thompson, and Hudson Harmon-along with great-grandchildren Adelynn Martin, Kaius Watkins, Daniel Watkins, and Hannah Watkins will carry forward his vibrant spirit and passion.

Merle is also remembered by his siblings: sister Dee Steed and husband Joe, and Debbie Bolay, brothers Tom Snider wife Rita, Royce Snider wife Missy, Eddie Snider wife Rhonda, Terry Harmon and wife Brenda, and  Richard Agee and wife Melissa, along with numerous nieces and nephews, will hold his memory close to their hearts.

Merle was preceded in death by his mother, Bernita Doreen Melton and step-father Tom Snider who instilled in him the values of love and respect that he carried throughout his life, as well as Mara Harmon- the mother of Sheila and Stephanie

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Merle's life during visitation events that will take place on August 25 and 26, 2025, from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. or you may choose to attend a gathering of family and friends on Tuesday evening from 5 to 7 p.m. at Brown -Dugger Funeral Home of Perry.

The funeral service will be held at Lucien Faith Church on August 27,2025 beginning at 2 p.m. with Pastor Lana and Don Knott presiding. Followed by a burial at McGuire Cemetery.

As a testament to his love, Merle will be honored by pallbearers Royce Snider, Eddie Snider, Tom Snider, Harley Harmon, Joe Steed, and Nathan Chartier. His life may have drawn to a close, but the melody of his love, laughter, and kindness will echo through the lives he touched forever.