Merle John Wilhite

Merle John Wilhite, age 99, went home to be with his Lord and Saviour on Sunday, September 29, 2024. Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m., on Saturday, October 12, 2024, at Anchor Baptist Church, Des Moines. Burial will follow at Laurel Hill Cemetery, Des Moines. Visitation will be from 4:30 – 6:30 p.m. on Friday, October 11, 2024, at Anchor Baptist Church.

Merle was born on May 15, 1925, to Earl and Carrie Wilhite. He dedicated his life to faithfully serve the Lord in all he said and did. For his entire adult life, he remained a humble servant to God, serving over 70 years at his church as Sunday School teacher, head usher, greeter, deacon, trustee – wherever and whenever God needed him, he was there. He enjoyed spending time with his beloved wife, Darleene, as well as spending time with family and friends.

Merle’s main purpose in life was to bring honor and glory to God in all things. He worked as a delivery driver for AE Dairy, Cascade Cleaners and the Des Moines Public School System for over 60 years. His free time was spent taking care of his family and his home, tending to both as a thankful steward of God’s faithfulness to him. He put God first always and praised him throughout his life, even during the difficult times of the passing of his wife and each of his children.

Merle is survived by his grandchildren, Amber (Donnie) Kline, Caleb (Kaitlyn) Pilcher, Isaac Pilcher; great-grandchildren, Myles, Treyvan, Sage, Nash, Primrose, Emery; son-in-law, Fred Pilcher; and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

Merle was preceded in death by his wife, Darleene; daughters, Vickie McDaniel and Jenni Pilcher; his son, Johnny; parents, Earl and Carrie Wilhite; brothers, Cecil, Orlan, Kenneth, Bob, Jim, Don.

Memorial contributions may be directed to Anchor Baptist Church in loving memory of Merle.

Condolences may be expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.

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