Merle J. Rich, age 86

Merle J. Rich, age 86, of Spindale, passed away Saturday, February 17, 2018.

Born January 15, 1932 in Rutherford County, she was a daughter to the late Claude Ray and Martha Randall Ray. Merle worked at Snyder Mills for several years and was a member of Goodes Creek Baptist Church. The joy of her life was being able to spend time with her children and grandchildren.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Reverend Billy H. Rich; one son, Jerry H. Rich; three brothers, Bill, David and C.G. Ray and a sister, Helen Ray Grant.

Those left to cherish her memory include two daughters, Deborah R. Ballew of Forest City and Marlene R. Taylor and husband, Steve of Gaffney, SC; one son, Keith Rich of Spindale and brother, Gene Ray and wife, Jeanetta of New Mexico. She is also survived by eight grandchildren, and fourteen great-grandchildren.

The funeral service was at the Harrelson Funeral Chapel. Rev Chad Hayes officiated. Interment followed in Rutherford County Memorial Cemetery.

Memorial donations are requested to Hospice of the Carolina Foothills, PO Box 336, Forest City, NC 28043 to Meals on Wheels or Goodes Creek Baptist Church, PO Box 720, Cliffside, NC 28024.

Harrelson Funeral and Cremation Services has been entrusted with arrangements.