Merrilee Kristina Casady

In Loving Memory of Merrilee Kristina Casady (Grace)

Merrilee Kristina Casady, a devoted wife, mother, sister, aunt, grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully at the age of 82 on July 6, 2025. Merrilee was born in Omaha, Nebraska, on September 17, 1942, to Cletus and Virginia Grace. The family eventually settled in Manhattan, Kansas, where she graduated from Manhattan High School in 1960. She went on to earn a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from Kansas State University, where she became a proud member of Pi Beta Phi.

Merrilee met her husband, Robert (Bob), in elementary school. They began dating in high school and married shortly after graduating college. They were married for 61 years and together raised two sons while enjoying a fulfilling life that took them across the globe—including a two-year adventure in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. After raising their family in the Washington, D.C. area, they retired to Valdosta, Georgia, where Merrilee enjoyed poolside and patio time with Bob and their network of friends.

Though she was well-traveled, Merrilee found her greatest happiness at home—cooking delicious meals and sharing them with family and friends. Whether it was enjoying a glass of wine on the porch, watching a football game, working in the yard, or getting lost in a juicy soap opera, she embraced life with warmth and joy. A lover of books, gardening, and cooking, she cherished the simple pleasures that made life so meaningful.

Merrilee was deeply committed to her community, volunteering her time and energy to the Humane Society and serving several years as President of the South Georgia Friends of the Library. Her love for animals, especially her dogs, was evident in all she did. She also found peace and joy in her favorite destinations, particularly the Cayman Islands and the Outer Banks of North Carolina.

Merrilee is survived by her loving husband, Bob; her brother, Tim; her two sons, Patrick (Cassandra) and Mike (Stephanie); and her beloved grandchildren: Jack, Lilly Grace, Camryn, Joe, Reece, and Nate. Her legacy of love, kindness, and generosity will live on through them and all who knew her.

A private celebration of life will be held in the near future to honor Merrilee.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to the doctors, nurses, CNAs, therapists, and staff at Langdale Hospice House. Your compassion, professionalism, and unwavering dedication to caring for others have meant so much during this time. We are deeply grateful for the kindness and support you have shown our loved one and our family.

In lieu of flowers, please consider honoring Merrilee’s memory by donating to one of her favorite causes: Friends of the Library, The Humane Society, Alzheimer’s Association, or Langdale Hospice House