Elizabeth Merle Reeves (fondly known as Merlie) was a May Day baby, born May 1, 1930, in Salem to George and Ruth Rhoten. She died Nov 12, 2024, at her longtime home in Salem, Oregon. She was preceded in death by her husband (and best friend) of almost 60 years, John W. Reeves, her brother and sister-in-law, David and Coralie Rhoten. Merlie is survived by her two daughters, Susie Hino and ChrisHe (Jim) O’Brien and her seven grandchildren – Collin (Heidi) O’Brien, Kyle (Kendra) O’Brien, Casey O’Brien, Carson (Erika) O’Brien, KayLee O’Brien, Jonathan (Mari) Hino, Eri (Justin) Hino and eight great-grandchildren. Merlie loved being a camp counselor at Camp Tamarack and was a proud Oregon State Beaver (and Sigma Kappa) having graduated with a Teaching and Physical Education degree. She taught PE in Long Beach, California, before marrying John. They then moved briefly to Arizona before returning to Salem in 1958 to raise her daughters near family. Merlie and John spent many winters in Havasu, Arizona, and traveling the country in their travel trailer but always returning to their favorite place, the Camp Sherman cabin. She loved the Metolius area, where she spent as much time as possible. She also spent much time at the family property on the Willamette River, as a young girl riding her horse, canoeing, water skiing, swimming and helping host the epic 4th of July parties. She was a dedicated member of PEO (Chapter BC), St Paul’s Episcopal Church and long-time volunteer at Walton House. She had many interests including ceramics, painting, but most of all, she loved her friends. Her social life was filled with weekly luncheons, Study Club and, of course, frequent Happy Hours. Merlie had many dear friends, many she met from her front porch in her “Happy Face” pajamas as they walked in Bush’s Pasture Park. Her vivaciousness, strong spirit and friendly smile endeared her to many. Merlie would brighten every room she walked into, greeting everyone by name, showing her genuine interest and love for everyone. She will be greatly missed by all but especially by her very loving family. There will be a celebratory happy hour Nov. 24, 2024, 3 p.m. -5 p.m. at Illahee Hills Country Club. Please come share stories, laughter, a glass of her favorite Barefoot wine (3 ice cubes) and, of course, a corndog. (Don’t worry, other food and drink will be available ) In lieu of flowers please consider Project Able, https://www.projectable.org, Chapter BC PEO Scholarships c/o Jeanne Bond-Esser 1030 Rafael Ave N, Keizer, Oregon 97303 or the National Multiple Sclerosis Society (the link is HERE). –Submitted information GUIDE: Publishing an obituary on Salem Reporter The post OBITUARY: E. Merle Reeves appeared first on Salem Reporter.