Linda Louise Merritt

Loving wife, mother and educator, Linda Merritt, 80, of Abilene, Texas (formerly of Gooding, Idaho), passed away May 6, 2026, in Abilene, Texas.

Linda was born May 24, 1945, in Gooding, Idaho, to Frank and Alma Graves (née Miller). She attended school in Bliss, Idaho, and graduated from Bliss High School in 1963. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in Music from the University of Idaho in 1968.

On August 13, 1968, Linda married Clell Merritt in Wendell, Idaho. The couple raised three children: Rhonda, Jennifer, and Randall. Linda loved her family fiercely and was a devoted and nurturing mother and wife.

Linda began her teaching career in 1968 as a music teacher in Gooding, Idaho. She later earned an Elementary Teaching Certificate from Idaho State University and taught third and fifth grade for many years in the Wendell School District, retiring in 2005. During her career, she formed lifelong friendships with colleagues, with special thanks to Beverly Whitaker Bifano and the late Carol Rae Goeckner, whose friendships she treasured.

Linda enjoyed spending time with friends and family and played a mean game of Gin Rummy. She truly loved music, and could be frequently found playing the piano, guitar or banjo. A lifelong teacher at heart, Linda continued to care for and teach others post-retirement (especially her grandchildren) and was steadfast in providing support - whether that was help with homework, a place to stay, a hug, words of encouragement or stern words of advice. She treasured each grandchild’s unique gifts, encouraged them to make wise choices, and inspired them to love learning and music.

Linda was preceded in death by her parents, Frank and Alma Graves. Linda is survived by her husband of nearly 58 years, Clell Merritt of Abilene, TX (formerly of Gooding, ID); her daughters Rhonda (Michael) Fitzgerald of Belle Isle, FL., and Jennifer Merritt of Abilene, TX; her son Randall Merritt of Twin Falls, ID; and her grandchildren: McKenley, Mary Elizabeth (Lizzy), Ian, Jett, Jaise, and Jess. She is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews, all of whom she adored.

Linda was deeply loved by her family and will be missed beyond what words can express. A Celebration of Life will be announced when arrangements are finalized.