Merline Lenore Self

Merline Lenore Self, 96, of Casa Grande, Arizona, a loving mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, passed away peacefully on September 7, 2024.

 Merline was born on July 18, 1928, to Boyd and Blanche Laird in Globe, Arizona. She graduated from Casa Grande Union High School, where she met and married James Self. Together, they had two children, Pamela and Dwayne Self. Merline devoted herself to raising her children and later worked at the ASCS office alongside her best friend, Ida Storey. She had a deep love for agriculture, sharing her passion with Jim, who was a farmer, and cherished the friendships she made in the field.

 Merline was an active volunteer in various organizations, including serving as Polio Chairman, supporting the March of Dimes, the Hospital Auxiliary, the Red Cross, ESA Sorority, and as a Rainbow Mother Advisory. She took great pride in being a mother figure to many of the girls in the Rainbow organization, a role that meant the world to her.

 Merline had a zest for life and many hobbies. She enjoyed playing bridge with her friends and pursuing various crafts, always keeping herself busy and up-to-date with the latest activities in Casa Grande. Known for her impeccable style, she was always dressed to the nines, from her perfectly done hair every Friday to her matching earrings.

After her divorce from Jim, she met Don Parker, her companion for 45 years. They shared a love for travel, exploring beautiful destinations worldwide, and playing golf. They spent their summers between Dunton, Colorado, and San Diego, California.

 To those who knew her, Merline was the life of every social event, with an unmatched ability to make friends everywhere she went. She never met a stranger and cherished her family deeply, always willing to do anything for those she loved. Her warmth and kindness will be deeply missed by all who knew her. 

Merline was predeceased by her parents, Boyd and Blanche; her first husband, James Self; her long-time companion, Donald Parker; and Thomas Kunz. She is survived by her daughter, Pamela Walton (Chuck); son, Dwayne Self; grandchildren Tiffany Shaw (Grant), Alyse Haldy, Darci Burleigh (Lucas), Martha Jacobs (Jonathan), and Chuck Jr.; and great-grandchildren Emma, Lyla, Sawyer, Carter, Luke, Noah, Joan, and Clyde.

 A service will be held at 10 a.m. on Saturday, September 14, 2024, at the First Presbyterian Church. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to The Museum of Casa Grande, 110 W. Florence Blvd., Casa Grande, AZ 85122, in memory of Merline.

 Merline's legacy of love, generosity, and her passion for life will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.