Merrimon LeGrand Gravely

Merrimon LeGrand Gravely gracefully departed December 28, 2022 at the glorious age of 100.  She transitioned peacefully with family by her side.  Born in her great aunt’s home in downtown Greensboro, NC, Merrimon was a lifelong resident of the city until relocating to Eastern NC in 2013.  She was witness to much during her 100 years, embraced life with great pleasure and faith, and always spoke lovingly about her upbringing and lifetime friendships.  She was quick of wit, enjoyed singing hymns, hilariously recited risqué limericks and was mischievous by any measure.

Merrimon attended Greensboro High School (now Grimsley High School) where she was voted head cheerleader.  It is noted she was quick to offer her granddaughters cheerleading tips from the “glory days”.  From there she attended Women’s College which included an exchange program with Fairmont Junior College in Washington, DC.  She enjoyed membership in the Masker’s Club and Glee Club at Fairmont.  Merrimon’s life following college entailed becoming a loving wife and mother.  She also was a devoted lifelong member of West Market Street United Methodist Church where former relatives had officiated and ultimately attended Wallace United Methodist Church in Eastern NC.  Merrimon was involved in the Greensboro Junior League and many clubs and charities over subsequent decades.

While she will be missed terribly, it brings great comfort that she was welcomed into heaven by her parents, Lillian and Homer LeGrand whom she adored, and her loving husband, Bruce Gravely.  She is also back in the company of many more contemporary friends, saints and her Lord and Savior.

She is survived in celebration by her children: son Randy and Kathy Hoover-Dempsey (children Josh, Jesse and Jordan), son Gates and Karen Gravely (children Meredith and Megan), daughter Hope and Keith Hall, son Bill Gravely (children Jacqueline, Paxton, Merri Baird and Emme) and daughter Merri and Scott Henry (child Grayson) and thirteen great grandchildren.

A memorial service will be held at West Market Street United Methodist Church on Saturday, January 21 at 1:00 in the sanctuary. Family will receive visitors in the church following the service.  A private burial will be held following at Forest Lawn Cemetery.

The family greatly appreciates all of the touching tributes that have been offered.  In lieu of flowers, contributions may be directed to West Market Street United Methodist Church or Wallace United Methodist Church in Wallace, NC.

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