Lisa Breeden Merrill

Lisa Breeden Merrill, 61, of Yanceyville, NC, born on December 14, 1964, in Knox Co. TN, passed away on April 14, 2026, at UNC Hospital Hillsborough. She was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, daughter, sister, and friend whose life was marked by kindness, strength, and a deep devotion to the people she loved. Lisa was a loving and caring person who always put the needs of others above her own. She carried herself with a warm heart and a generous spirit, and those who knew her will remember the way she made others feel valued and cared for. She had a smile that could brighten a room, and she met life with a strong personality, a little sass, and a genuine willingness to help anyone in need. She would give you the shirt off her back, and that selfless nature was one of the many things that made her so special. Family was the center of Lisa’s life, and she treasured every moment spent with those closest to her. She loved her husband, John Merrill. She is survived by her sons, Jay Ball and his wife Jessica, and David Ball and his wife Julie, as well as her daughters, Christy and Heather Nelson. She also leaves behind 15 loving grandchildren, each of whom brought her immense joy and pride. Her greatest happiness came from being with her family, especially her grandchildren, whom she adored deeply. Lisa is also survived by her father, James Jenkins, and his wife Glenda; her sisters, Jamie Wheeley and her husband Blake, and Debbie Jenkins; and her brother, Lee Breeden. She was preceded in death by her mother, Barbara Ford Jenkins, and her brother, Troy Nelson. The bonds she shared with her family were strong and lasting, and her memory will continue to live on in the hearts of all who loved her. In addition to her devotion to family, Lisa enjoyed the simple pleasures of life. She loved spending time at the lake, where she found peace and happiness in being surrounded by the beauty of the water and the company of those she loved. Music was also a source of joy for her, and she always had a song in her heart and a smile on her face. Her love of life, her strong spirit, and her caring nature left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know her. Lisa Breeden Merrill will be remembered for her loving heart, her strong will, and the way she made others feel seen and appreciated. Her life was a reflection of compassion, devotion, and family love. Though she will be deeply missed, her legacy will remain in the memories, stories, and love shared by her family and friends.

A memorial service will be held at 3:00 PM on Saturday April 18, 2026, at the McClure Funeral Home Chapel in Graham with the Pastor Don Pegg officiating. The family will receive friends 30 minutes prior to the service at the funeral home on Saturday.