Merilee Ann Epler

Merilee Ann (Henderson) Epler, 79, died March 21, 2026, at Western Prairie Assisted Living in Ulysses.

She was born in Phillipsburg on June 6, 1946, to Gene and Mary Louise Henderson, Merilee spent most of her life in Scott City. After graduating from Scott Community High School, she attended Fort Hays State University and met Larry Henry.

They were married in September of 1966 and had two daughters, Amy and Julie. After divorcing, Merilee returned home to Scott City to raise her girls near her family.

Merilee operated the Montgomery Ward catalogue store for several years before being hired as the junior high secretary. She worked as a secretary in USD 466 for over 30 years.

On October 4, 1979, Merilee married a fellow graduate of SCHS (Class of 1964) Lynn Epler. He survives.

Merilee is also survived by her daughters, Amy Tillison, Wichita, and Julie Henry, Scott City; grandsons, Blake Duff and wife, Brittany, Zachary Duff, Drew Duff and wife, Brandi, Ryan Tillison and wife, Alexis, and Evan Tillison and wife, Chloe; six greatgrandchildren; a nephew, Michael Binns and wife, Cynthia, and a niece, Marti Patton, and husband, Todd.

She was preceded in death by her parents; brother, Bill; and sister, Judy.

The funeral service was held on March 25 at the First United Methodist Church, Scott City, with Rev. Jeff Goetzinger and Michacl Binns presiding.

Interment followed at the Scott County Cemetery.

Donations can be made to Scott Community High School in care of Price and Sons Funeral Homes, Box 553, Scott City, Ks. 6787l.