Connie Lynn McGuffin Merrill

Connie Lynn McGuffin Merrill was born on February 12, 1935, in Hollywood, California to Lyman Earl McGuffin of Kansas and Clyda Tetona Gardner McGuffin of Marysville, Idaho. She married Alan Richard Merrill March 19 1955. She graduated from Cheyenne Central High School in 1954. She devoted her life to her faith, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and to her family. She found joy in serving others and sharing the gospel. She passed away on August 26, 2026, in Rexburg, Idaho. She is survived by her children, Jon Brian Merrill, Kelly Paul Merrill, Kim Merrill Comin, JoAnna Merrill Woods, Carolyn Merrill Messer, and Mariner Richard Merrill, as well as numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Those who knew her remember her not only for her devotion and service, but also for her love of the arts, opera, debate, and poetry which she could recite even late in life. Her life was shaped by quiet commitments to both family and community.

Lynn leaves a legacy of steady faith, quiet service, and a deep love for her children and their children. She gave time and energy to her church and even in later years her mind stayed sharp for literature and the arts. Those who knew her might say she taught by simply living, faithfully, kindly, and with quiet strength. She served two missions for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, one in Nauvoo, Illinois with her husband Richard and another in the U.S. Virgin Islands with a high school girlfriend Audrey. Those opportunities to serve and share her faith were among the great blessings of her life.

One of Lynns greatest gifts was the quiet strength of her faith. At 91, she approached the final chapter of her life with remarkable peace and acceptance. When her caregivers suggested hospice care she listened thoughtfully, ask careful questions and embraced the transition with calm confidence. There was no fear, only a quiet readiness. Her lifelong faith gave her a firm assurance that death was not an ending but s new chapter. She looked forward to being reunited with her beloved husband and meeting her savior. Those close to her were deeply impressed by the serenity and faith with which she prepared to leave this iife. The family is grateful for the care and condolences shown by the staff and caretakers at the Homestead in Rexburg. We celebrate a life well lived.