Sharlene Merryman, 81, of Fort Worth, Texas, passed away on July 30, 2025, surrounded by her loving family.

Sharlene was born on April 18, 1944, in Moultrie, Georgia, to W.J. Goings and Lanelle Ellis Goings. After graduating Bryan Adams High School, Sharlene attended and graduated from Abilene Christian University, where she received her bachelor's degree. She was employed as the Director of Pre-School at Southside Christian School for 15 years.

On January 25, 1965, Sharlene married the love of her life, Gary Merryman, in Dallas, Texas. Together, they raised three daughters, Lucretia, Lorrie, and Lisa.

Sharlene took the words that Jesus spoke in Matthew 19 to "let the little children come to me" to heart. For over 40 years she dedicated her life to being a champion for kids who needed one. Starting in the 1960's fostering 18 kids who needed a mom and a dad, establishing the cradle roll program at the Alta Mesa Church of Christ to working with the Salvation Army to help support moms and kids who needed a little compassion in their lives, Sharlene truly lived the words of Jesus. Her impact on countless lives is immeasurable and will be truly felt for generations to come.

She was preceded in death by her parents and many loving aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Left to cherish her memory, her husband of 60 years, Gary Merryman of Fort Worth; her daughters: Lucretia McMicken, Lorrie Merryman, and Lisa Merryman all of Fort Worth; 5 grandchildren: John McMicken, Ashton Miller, Gary Gammon, Harrison Gretchen, and Aubree Waggoner; 4 great grandchildren: McKynlee McMicken, Elsa McMicken, Elizabeth Miller, and Wyatt Miller.  She is also survived by her sisters, Kathy Moore of Orlando, Florida and Regina Simpson of Atlanta, Georgia.

A visitation will be held from 4:00 P.M. to 6:00 P.M. on Sunday, August 3, 2025, at McCauley Funeral Home in Franklin, Texas. Services will be held at 11:00 A.M. on Monday, August 4, 2025, at Bald Prairie Church of Christ. Burial will follow at Bald Prairie Cemetery.