Merri's obituary
Merri Elizabeth “Beth” Mueller (Merri Calhoun, Merri Evans) of Lewisville, North Carolina, died unexpectedly at Wake Forest Baptist Hospital on December 8, 2023, in Winston-Salem, North Carolina at the age of 53.
Merri is survived by her parents, William and Laura Mueller of Winston-Salem, North Carolina, sister and previous husband, Robert Evans. Merri’s estranged children survive her but out of respect for their privacy and their adopted families, their names will not be listed.
Merri was born on March 8, 1970, in Granville, North Carolina before being adopted as an infant by William and Laura. Her parents were so grateful and felt blessed to be able to start their family with Merri’s adoption. They loved her tremendously and afforded her every opportunity in life. Merri graduated from North Forsyth High School in 1989 and worked various jobs until having to seek disability.
As we each pay our respects to a person whose life was not straightforward, to say the least, we are to remember, acknowledge, and perhaps to make peace with the complexities that defined the person Merri was. It is sad to bid farewell at such a young age and it is especially challenging when our relationships with the departed were fraught with challenges.
But even the most difficult person has their virtues, and it is these we can celebrate and remember. Merri was someone who evoked strong emotions in those around her. Some felt frustration, and yet for others, a bewildering combination of feelings that are tough to articulate. But it is important to remember that like every human being, Merri had layers, and every layer had its own story. Merri was a complicated and very troubled individual who led a very conflicted life which often negatively impacted those around her.
As we reflect on the life of Merri, the family asks everyone to forgive themselves and Merri for any unresolved conflicts, and to wish her spirit a journey of peace and reconciliation. The family’s hope is that Merri is no longer in pain, physically or mentally, and she may now rest and be content.