Arwella (Mortensen) Merrell

Arwella Mortensen Merrell, 97, a Farmington resident since 1952, left this life to be with her beloved husband on Wednesday, October 9, 2013. She was born in Virden, New Mexico, on December 25, 1915 the daughter of John Alfred Mortensen and Mary Lucy Pierce
Mortensen. She was preceded in death by her husband of 62 years, O.J. Merrell, on June 12, 1996. Arwella was an active member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and served in many callings throughout the years. In Virden, she taught in high school, and since coming to Farmington in 1952 with her husband and their three children, she worked as a secretary and taught in the grade schools for many years. Arwella leaves behind her son Calvin Merrell and wife Judith of Prescott, AZ; daughter Paula Owen of Philadelphia, PA; daughter Madeline Jack and husband Alvin of Farmington; sister Ethel Goodman of Tucson, AZ; 10 grandchildren, 23 great-grandchildren and 1 great-great grandchild. Viewing will be Friday, October 18th from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Brewer, Lee and Larkin Funeral Home, 103 East Ute St. in Farmington and one hour prior to services at the church. Funeral services for Arwella are Saturday, October 19th at 11:00 a.m. at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1310 East 25th St, corner of Knudsen and 25th, Farmington with Bishop Steve Nygren conducting. She will then be laid to rest next to her husband at Greenlawn Cemetery. The family suggests that memorial contributions be made to a charity of the giver's choice in Arwella's memory. The family wishes to express their sincere gratitude to all relatives, friends and staff at Beehive House who were so kind and supportive during this time. Your kindness will always be remembered. Arwella's care is entrusted to Brewer, Lee and Larkin Funeral Home, 103 East Ute St., Farmington, (505) 325-8688.