Johnny Don "Donny" Merryman

Johnny Don "Donny"  Merryman, age 71, of Abilene, and formerly of Coleman, died Friday, April 1, 2022, at his residence.

A private family memorial service celebrating his life will be held at a later date. Arrangements are entrusted to Stevens Funeral Home in Coleman.

Johnny was born January 20, 1951, in Coleman to John D. Merryman and Billie Marie Jennings Merryman. He grew up in Coleman where he attended school. Johnny worked in the oil fields for many years on the pulling units and then as a pumper. After moving to Abilene in 1994, Johnny worked for Harris Acoustics where he helped with many construction jobs.

Johnny was a kind and loving man. He enjoyed country and western dancing, fishing, and gardening. Johnny was known to have a “green thumb” and always had a garden full of fresh vegetables. He loved being outdoors tending to his chickens and playing with his dogs. Johnny’s biggest achievement was being a father and grandfather. He loved spending time with his daughters and participating in his grandchildren’s sporting events. His philosophy, “I work hard and pray harder,” was evident in providing for his family and his faith in God. He was a simple man, meaning he had all he needed and never wanted for anything more. Johnny will be greatly missed.

Preceding Johnny in death are his father, John D. Merryman, and his brother, Eddie Merryman.

Johnny is survived by his mother, Billie Marie Merryman of Abilene; two daughters, Ranee Taylor and husband Michael of Coleman, and Shay Mickler and husband Josh of Coleman; six grandchildren, Chase Taylor, Devin Taylor, Emily Taylor, Dylan Mickler, Ethan Mickler, and Wyatt Mickler; two sisters, Peggy Davis of Abilene, and Nancy Taylor and husband Andy of Abilene; and the love of his life, Deedie Reagor of Coleman.

Memorials are suggested in memory of Johnny to the First Baptist Church Youth, P.O. Box 983, Coleman, Texas 76834, the Coleman County Senior Center, 916 S. Concho Street, Coleman, Texas 76834, or to a charity of the donor’s choice.

Remembrances and condolences can be expressed to the Merryman family via the virtual guestbook on Johnny’s tribute page at www.stevensfuneralhome.com. Stevens Funeral Home is honored to serve the Merryman family.