Merle Walker Huffman

Merle Walker Huffman, 96, passed away peacefully at her home on Sunday, August 11, 2024. Her unwavering spirit and gentle soul touched the lives of so many, leaving an indelible mark on all who had the privilege of knowing her. 

Merle's life was a testament to her generous and nurturing heart. Never one to sit still, she owned and operated two restaurants, Four Cooks Delight in Burlington and Ocean Side Deli in Ocean Isle Beach, baked pies that graced the shelves of Wiles Grocery, nurtured young minds by running a nursery school in her home, and worked as a teacher’s aide at Fisher Street Elementary School. She was a friend to all ages, embodying the spirit of encouragement and compassion wherever she went. Merle shared her love for travel with a close-knit group of friends in the May-Lee Friendship Club, which she began in her neighborhood in the 1950s as a charter member.

She was a master seamstress and made clothes for her children, loved to cook and bake, was a lifelong member of a local bridge club, and was never happier than when tending to the many plants in her home and yard. Blessed with an adventurist spirit, she and her husband took their family on many trips to Garden City Beach, Cherry Grove Beach, Hanging Rock State Park, Tanglewood Park, Maggie Valley, Washington, DC, New York City, Boston, Charleston, Greenbrier, Florida, the Bahamas, Sag Harbor, Ocean Isle Beach, and Pine Knoll Shores. She grew up in First Baptist Church in Burlington and was a member of Grove Park Baptist Church and a charter member of Holly Hill Baptist Church. She taught Sunday School and Vacation Bible School, and was active in the women’s group. She also volunteered at Alamance Regional Hospital and delivered Meals on Wheels. She was an avid reader, loved playing the piano, and cherished dancing with her husband and attending theatrical productions.

In the embrace of her loving family, Merle found her greatest joy. Her proudest accomplishments were born from the love and devotion she poured into her family, leaving a legacy of strength and kindness. Throughout her life, she maintained the same level of enthusiasm she did as a high school cheerleader, always encouraging those around her. Her positive attitude and uplifting spirit will be greatly missed. Merle's family meant everything to her, and she found her greatest fulfillment in being a devoted mother to her children: David Huffman (Elaine), Susan Huffman Bolick (Steve), and Trisha Huffman Law (Tracey). Her legacy of love  extended to her grandchildren: Kurtis Bullard (Kasey), Stephen Bolick (Patrick Fitzgerald), Chase Elam (Jenna), Kelly Bolick Barbosa (Ramon), Katie Huffman, Anna Huffman (Chad Berry), Max Elam (Nicole), Andrew Law, and Cameron Law; great-grandchildren, Easton Bullard, Grady Bullard, and Everleigh Elam; son-in-law, Michael Bullard; and her niece, Suzanne Eller (Brian). She was preceded in death by her parents, Curtis Perkins “C.P.” Walker and Rosa Harrell Walker; husband, Donald T. Huffman; daughter, Catherine Huffman Bullard; sister, Judy Clegg; brother, Gene Walker; brother-in-law, David Clegg; and son-in-law, Charles “Boots” Elam. 

The family wishes to thank Dr. Jeffrey Sparks, Dana Wicker, and Hospice of Burlington for their compassionate care. 

A celebration of Merle’s life will be held at 2 PM on Friday, August 16, 2024 at Lowe Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. David Huffman and Dr. Gene Hunsinger officiating. The family will receive friends from 12:45 – 1:45 PM prior to the service. Interment will follow the service at Pine Hill Cemetery. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Hospice Home of Burlington or Holly Hill Baptist Church.