Merry Lea Vahala

Merry Lea Vahala, 65, of Byesville passed away Wednesday (July 18, 2018) at the Morrison House, Zanesville.

She was born October 25, 1952 in Cambridge and was the daughter of the late John and Aletha (Waers) Vahala.

Merry was a 1970 graduate of the former Guernsey Catholic Central. She earned her bachelor’s degree from Miami University in 1974, and later earned a master’s degree from Akron University.  She was a primary teacher in the Rolling Hills Local School District for 35 years having taught at Buffalo and Brook elementary.  Merry enjoyed her extensive travels throughout the United States, family gatherings, playing bridge and reading.

In addition to her parents she was preceded in death by one brother Buddy Jones, and one brother-in-law, Buster Clewell.

Merry is survived by three brothers, Larry (Norma) Jones of Byesville, Ted (Barbara) Jones of Derwent, and John (Shirley) Vahala of Caldwell; two sisters, Kay Clewell and Patti Tipton both of Byesville; a very special niece, Jaclyn Tipton; several nieces and nephews, great nieces and nephews, aunts and uncles.

Calling hours will be Friday from 5-7 p.m. at Black-Epperson Funeral Home, Byesville.  Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated at 10:00 a.m. Saturday at St. Stephen’s Catholic Church in Caldwell with Fr. Wayne Morris officiating.  Burial will be in Greenwood Cemetery.

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