Mary Alice Merkel

Mary Alice Ellisor Merkel, 91, passed away in Cleveland, Texas on December 22nd, 2024 surrounded by her beloved family. Mary was born to parents Matthew Ellisor and Ethel Thompson Ellisor on May 10th, 1933 in Huntsville, Texas.

Mary will be remembered as the rock of her family, and a constant source of strength, wisdom, and love. She was a hardworking and dedicated woman who poured her heart into taking care of those around her. Her greatest joy came from spending time with her family, creating lasting memories, and offering a steady presence that made all feel welcome and loved. Whether gathered around the dinner table, floating the river, or simply enjoying quiet moments together, her happiness was rooted in the connections she shared with her loved ones.

She will be deeply missed by all that had the privilege of knowing her.

Mary was preceded in death by her husband, Gene Jacob Merkel; parents, Matthew and Ethel Ellisor; daughter, Glenda Joyce Bay; grandson, Joseph Bay; as well as numerous brothers and sisters.

Those left to cherish her memory are sons, Ronald Perry Bay and wife Patricia, Joseph William Bay and wife Kerry, Jerry (J.D.) Bay; daughter, Mary Ann Barnes and husband Richard Hyde; sisters, Esther Davis, Annie Ruth Widner, Helen Nelson; grandchildren, Fancie Yancey and husband Chris, Alice Renee Enloe and husband Ernie, David Barnes and wife Emily, Robyn Tollefsbol and husband Jeff, Ronald (Bear) Bay Jr. and wife Kelly, Joshua Bay and wife Shanna Jo Thomas, Jason Clemons and wife Audrey; as well as a host of treasured great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends. 

A visitation for Mary will be held on Friday, December 27th, from 5pm - 7pm at Pace-Stancil Funeral Home in Cleveland, Texas. The funeral service will be held at 3pm on Saturday, December 28th, at the Pace-Stancil Chapel in Cleveland, Texas. Those serving as pallbearers include, Jason Clemons, David Barnes, Bear Bay, Joshua Bay, Jacob Jones, Jeff Tollefsbol. Honorary pallbearers are Chris Yancey and Riley Bay.