Merlin R. Smith

Merlin R. Smith, age 77, of Rigby, died in Idaho Falls, Idaho January 21, 2007. Merlin was born October 15, 1927 in Rexburg, Idaho, the son of Ariel Mellor Smith and Thelma Richards Smith. Merlin grew up and attended schools in Rexburg, Idaho, and graduated from Madison High School. He attended two years at Ricks College in Rexburg. He enjoyed playing basketball. He coached a V.F.W. Baseball team in the American Legion Baseball Organization. Merlin farmed in the Rexburg & Idaho Falls areas. He served with the U.S. Army during the Korean conflict. He married Lorna Kay Janes, October 15, 1954 in Rexburg, Idaho. They later divorced. He married T. Elaine Bonnell, May 5, 1989 in Idaho Falls, Idaho, she preceded him in death. Merlin served with the U.S. army during the Korean conflict. He was a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He was an avid golfer, and billiards player. He enjoyed fishing and music. He loved his family, and was proud of his heritage. He is survived by one daughter Jodi Sue Brown of Missoula, Montana, and three sons; Mark Richards (Noni) Smith of Richmond, Virginia; Rex Kay Smith of Rigby, Idaho; and Jerry Smith of Firth, Idaho. He is survived by two sisters, June Misseldine of Ashton, Idaho, and Alice (Don) Wilson of Pocatello, Idaho. He is survived by one brother Willard (Faith) Smith of Las Vegas, Nevada. He is survived by 11 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his parents, 1 sister, and 3 brothers. Graveside services will be held Saturday, January 27, 2007 at the Annis Little Butte Cemetery, at 12:00 Noon. The family will receive friends Saturday 10:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. at Eckersell Memorial Chapel in Rigby. Burial will be in the Annis Little Butte Cemetery, under the direction of Eckersell Memorial Chapel in Rigby.