LAGRANGE -- Betty Lou Merrifield, 81, of LaGrange died Wednesday (Nov. 25, 2009) at Parkview LaGrange Hospital in LaGrange.

She was born March 24, 1928, in LaGrange to Archie L. and Retha V. (Ringler) Gage. On Dec. 7, 1946 in Wolcottville, she married Jean L. Merrifield. He preceded her in death on June 23, 1989.

She is survived by two daughters, Sharon (Jack) Miller and Debra Merrifield, both of LaGrange; one sister, Mary Ellen Alexander of Kendallville; and four grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by two brothers, Gene and William Gage.

Living her lifetime in LaGrange County, Mrs. Merrifield was a member of the LaGrange American Legion Post 215 Auxiliary. She retired in 1980 from Kirsch Company in Sturgis, Mich., where she had worked since 1946.

Friends may call from 2 to 5 p.m. Sunday at Frurip-May Funeral Home, 309 W. Michigan St., LaGrange.

Funeral services will be at 10 a.m. Monday at the funeral home with the Rev. Carldean Merrifield officiating. Burial will be in Greenwood Cemetery in LaGrange.

Memorials may be given to Parkview Home Health and Hospice.

Visit www.fruripmayfuneralhome.com to send online condolences.