Merilee Ann Henderson Epler, age 79 passed away on Saturday, March 21, 2026, at Western Prairie Assisted Living in Ulysses, KS, surrounded by her daughters.

She was born in Phillipsburg, Kansas on June 6, 1946 to Gene and Mary Louise Henderson, Merilee spent most of her life in Scott City. After graduating from Scott Community High School, she went on to Fort Hays State University and met Larry Henry. They were married in September of 1966 and had two daughters, Amy & Julie. After divorcing, Merilee returned home to Scott City to raise her girls near her family.

Merilee operated the Montgomery Ward catalogue store for several years before being hired as the junior high secretary. Working as a secretary for USD466 was a job she truly loved. She was a constant presence for over 30 years and was adored by faculty, parents and generations of students.

On October 4, 1979, Merilee married a fellow graduate of Scott Community High, Class of ’64, Lynn Epler. Merilee and Lynn were married for the rest of her life.

Merilee is survived by her husband, Lynn Epler of Scott City, Kansas; daughters - Amy Tillison of Wichita, Kansas and Julie Henry of Scott City, Kansas; grandsons Blake Duff (Brittany)of Scott City, Kansas, Zachary Duff of Kansas City, Missouri, Drew Duff (Brandi) of Scott City, Kansas, Ryan Tillison (Alexis) of Derby, Kansas and Evan Tillison (Chloe) of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma; six great-grandchildren; nephew Michael Binns (Cynthia) and niece Marci Patton (Todd).

She is preceded in death by her parents; brother, Bill, and sister, Judy.

Funeral service will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday, March 25, 2026 at the United Methodist Church in Scott City, Kansas, with Rev. Jeff Goetzinger and Michael Binns presiding.

Memorials In lieu of flowers can be made to the Scott Community High School in care of Price & Sons Funeral Home, PO Box 553, Scott City, Kansas, 67871.

Interment following service at the Scott County Cemetery in Scott City, Kansas.

Visitation will be from 10:00 a.m. until 7:00 p.m. Tuesday at Price & Sons Funeral Home, 401 S. Washington St., Scott City, Kansas, 67871.