Merilynn Zoe Frame's Obituary
A life well loved...
Merilynn Zoe Frame n. Smith came into this world on a blistering hot August 30, 1922. She was welcomed by her parents, Lawrence and Lela Smith, and her older sister, Nadine, who declared she would have rather had a puppy. Merilynn grew up in Corydon, Iowa surrounded by neighbors and loving grandparents, Frank and Zoe Schwilk across the street. She and her sister were doted upon by their aunt and uncle whose gift or roller skates were worn down to the axles skating on the town sidewalks.
Merilynn loved animals and often dressed pets in doll clothes and took them for rides in her doll buggy. She loved the library and could often be found checking out books deemed too old for her by the watchful librarian. Merilynn loved school and excelled in the classroom.
The love of her life was a country boy whose locker was next to hers at Corydon High School. Merilynn and Lowell were married for over 78 years. They started their married life on an abandoned farm near Confidence, where they raised their daughter, Connie.
Merilynn loved life in the farm neighborhood. She was a dedicated member of the faith community of New Providence Baptist Church where she taught Sunday School and Vacation Bible School. Merilynn was a 4H leader, active in the Porkettes, Farm Bureau, and Republican Women. She was an incredible seamstress, and a fabulous cook, but her great love was her flowers and chocolate.
Merilynn also loved to travel, especially in their motorhome with family. She and Lowell visited all 50 states, Mexico, Canada, the Caribbean, and Europe. Many hours were spent boating on Lake Rathbun aboard "Hog Wild" with friends and family. Merilynn loved trips to their cabin on Table Rock Lake, fondly called "Modock Mountain."
But Merilynn's greatest love was Lowell and her family. She is survived by her daughter, Connie and husband John Riemer of Hinsdale, Illinois; grandson, Jay Riemer and wife, Tina of Clermont, Florida; grandson, Joel Riemer and wife, Carolyn, of Naperville, Illinois; and great grandchildren, Adam, Benjamin, Logan, Ashley, and Chloe Riemer. She is survived by nieces, nephews, cousins, and many friends. Merilynn peacefully departed this well-loved life and went home to Glory to join Lowell July 11, 2022.
Funeral service will be 11:00 AM, Saturday, July 16, 2022 at New Providence Baptist Church in Confidence. Interment will immediately follow at Confidence Cemetery. Visitation will be Friday, July 15, 2022 at Thomas Funeral Home in Centerville from 10:00 am - 7:00 pm with family present from 5-7:00 pm. There will also be a time of visitation one hour prior to the service at New Providence Baptist Church from 10-11:00 am. Memorials may be given to New Providence Baptist Church and condolences may be shared at www.thomasfh.com or facebook.com/thomasfuneralhome. The family appreciates donations in Merilynn's memory to the care and upkeep of New Providence Baptist Church.
What’s your fondest memory of Merilynn?
What’s a lesson you learned from Merilynn?
Share a story where Merilynn's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Merilynn you’ll never forget.
How did Merilynn make you smile?

