Merrilyn Jean Murrison, 86, of Salina, Kansas, passed away on Sunday, November 8, 2026. She was a woman of extraordinary kindness, quiet strength, unwavering faith, and deep devotion to her family. Her gentle spirit, warm smile, and remarkable ability to find something to be grateful for in every circumstance touched the lives of all who knew her.
Born February 17, 1940, in McPherson, Kansas, Merrilyn was the only child of Rollind and Lafern (Ericson) Olson. Proud of her Swedish heritage, she grew up in Lindsborg, Hillsboro, and Minneapolis, Kansas, where she graduated from high school. She attended Kansas State University and was a member of Alpha Delta Pi sorority.
While at Kansas State, she met Clayton “Chuck” Shepard, whom she married shortly after graduation. Together they had three children: Suzan, Steven Michael, and Mark. Following Chuck’s tragic death in a plane crash when Merrilyn was just 25, she returned to Kansas State to renew her teaching credentials and subsequently taught at McKinley Middle School in Clay Center, Kansas.
In 1970, Merrilyn married Max Murrison and moved with her children to Salina, where she devoted herself to raising her family. They shared 51 years of marriage until Max’s passing in 2021.
Merrilyn’s family was the center of her life. Affectionately known as “MorMor” to her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, she had an extraordinary gift for making everyone feel loved, welcomed, and valued. Her home was a place of warmth, laughter, and unconditional acceptance. She cherished family gatherings and proudly carried on Swedish holiday traditions.
A woman of deep Christian faith, Merrilyn was a devoted member of Christ Cathedral Episcopal Church in Salina for nearly 50 years. She was also a longtime member of P.E.O. Chapter ED and enjoyed reading, playing bridge, and spending time with her many cherished friends.
Her family affectionately described her as a “Kansas Viking,” reflecting the beautiful combination of kindness and warmth from her Kansas upbringing and the strength and resilience of her Swedish heritage. She had a gentle spirit, unwavering faith, and the ability to find joy and laughter even in life’s hardest moments.
Merrilyn is survived by her children, Suzan Murrison, Steven Michael Murrison, and Mark Murrison (Tracy); seven grandchildren, Alisha Lewis (Scott), Brentt Murrison (Sharon Lytle), Nathan Murrison (Audry), Luke Murrison, Sam Murrison, Anna Kate Murrison, and Molly Murrison; and her great-grandchildren Phoenix Lewis, Theo Lewis, Nadia Murrison, Malik Murrison, Aspen Barve, Baker Murrison, Creed Murrison, Jesse, Brayden, Sylas, Jayven and Amariah Murrison. She was preceded in death by her parents, Rollind and Lafern Olson; her first husband, Clayton “Chuck” Shepard; and her husband, Max Murrison.
Merrilyn leaves a legacy of love, grace, and gratitude. She taught those around her, through the example of her life, that true strength can be gentle, kindness is never weakness, and there is always something to be grateful for.
A Celebration of Life will be held at a future date.