Betty Jean Merriman, 89

Funeral services for Betty Jean Merriman, 89, of Gainesville, were held  Feb. 14, 2022, in the Clinkingbeard Funeral Home chapel in Gainesville with Halbert Smith officiating. Burial was in the Hart Cemetery in Dugginsville.

She died Feb. 9, 2022, at the Gainesville Healthcare Center. 

She was born Dec. 4, 1932, in Pontiac to Frank and Ethel Ray (Bias) Hillhouse.

Betty was a life-long resident of Ozark County. Most of her life was spent in Dugginsville on the family farm. She spent her time as a homemaker, raising five children, as well as doing farm chores including hand milking cows and helping tend a large garden. 

She was possibly the best cook in three states. She thoroughly enjoyed feeding her family and anyone else that was around at meal time. A couple of her specialties were chocolate rolls and fried pies, which were enjoyed by many. She truly loved her family and was able to enjoy all the new additions that came along for many years.

She is survived by four children Harold Merriman of Theodosia, Ethel Merriman of Mountain Home, Arkansas, Boyde Merriman and wife Cheryl of Branson and Robert Merriman and wife Arlene of Gainesville; fourteen grandchildren; twenty-nine great grandchildren; eighteen great-great grandchildren; and a host of other family and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents Frank and Ethel Ray Hillhouse; her husband George Merriman; one son Jim Merriman; one grandson Justin Merriman; one granddaughter Angie Ridenour; and three brothers Alvin, Harlin & Hervil Dean Hillhouse.

Memorial contributions may be made to Hart Cemetery and can be left at the funeral home. Arrangements are under the direction of Clinkingbeard Funeral Home, Gainesville.