Merrill Epperson

GALION - Dr. Merrill Boyd Epperson, veterinarian and longtime resident of Galion, Ohio, passed away peacefully on November 8, 2025, surrounded by family. He was 91 years old.

Born in Galion on June 19, 1934, he grew up on a farm near Iberia, Ohio, raising and showing Shropshire sheep. He graduated from Iberia High School in 1952 then attended The Ohio State University, where he earned his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine in 1958. That year, he married Anne Oakley and returned to Galion to practice with his father Dr. Marvin Eugene Epperson, where he cared for generations of families and their animals until retiring in 2000. He earned the trust of countless clients who knew they could rely on him not only for his medical expertise but also for his kindness and understanding during difficult times. In his working career he mentored numerous young veterinarians who credit him with initiating their path to professional success.

Dr. Epperson was deeply involved in his community and was on many committees relating to civic issues and events. He was an enthusiastic member of the North Central Ohio Veterinary Medical Association. He served on the Crawford County Fair Board, the Galion City School Board and on the Board of Directors of the First Federal Savings and Loan (now First Federal Bank of Ohio). He took special interest in the Galion Hospital, serving for a total of 40 years on the Board of Directors of the Galion Community Hospital, and subsequently on the Board for Avita Health System. He was active in philanthropy supporting the Galion City Schools, the Galion First United Methodist Church (now the Christ Covenant Church), the OSU Mansfield campus, and the OSU College of Veterinary Medicine. He served on the Boards of the Ralph E. Boyd Foundation and the Avita Health Foundation.

Following retirement Dr. Epperson enjoyed golfing, travelling, cheering on the Ohio State Buckeyes, and spending time with family in coastal North Carolina. He cherished his family above all else and took great pride in the community that supported him throughout his life.

Dr. Epperson is survived by his wife of 67 years Anne Oakley Epperson; children Bill (Lori), Lynn Tuggle (Berk), and Steve (Aurelia); brother Charles William (RuthAnn); grandchildren Brandon Tuggle (Amanda), Erin Tuggle, Joshua Epperson (Emily), Megan Epperson (Eric); great grandchildren Lily and Jackson Tuggle; nephew Joe Epperson and niece Susan Ferritto.

Snyder Funeral Home Richardson Davis Chapel is assisting the family with a memorial service to be held on November 28, 2025, at Galion Christ Covenant Church, with visitation beginning at noon and funeral service at 2:00, with a lunch to follow. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Avita Health Foundation in memory of Dr. Boyd Epperson. Dr. Epperson's legacy lives on through the countless lives he touched - both human and animal. His compassion, dedication, and gentle spirit will be remembered by all who had the privilege to know him.

Richardson Davis Chapel of Snyder Funeral Homes in Galion is honored to serve the family of Dr. Boyd Epperson, and condolences may be made to them at www.SnyderFuneralHomes.com.