Elaine Merriman, 61, Forsyth, MO, formerly of Gainesville, MO passed away on December 2, 2010 at St John's Regional Medical Center in Springfield, MO. She was born on September 20, 1949 in Hood River, OR, the daughter of Sonny and Lydia (Hankins) Roberts.

Elaine graduated from Forsyth High School, class of 1967. In 1969 she was united in marriage to Harold Merriman. The couple moved to Gainesville, MO and started a family. They were blessed with three children. Elaine was a very loving mother, grandmother, and friend. She was a kind and gentle person who had a special talent, taking care of others. She was very loving and nurturing to all those around her. She worked for many years in the nursing field. In 1997, she opened Granny's Treasures, an antique shop that she enjoyed running for several years. She loved visiting with her customers. She was a longtime resident of the Gainesville area. Elaine was a Christian and will be greatly missed by all her family and friends.

Elaine was preceded in death by her father Sonny; one brother Dean; and one sister Bernice. She is survived by her three children Stan Merriman of Branson, MO, Rod Merriman of Gainesville, MO, and Melinda Cole of Forsyth, MO; her mother Lydia Roberts of Kissee Mills, MO; four grandchildren Chris Cole, Makayla Cole, Larissa Cole, and Taylor Merriman; three brothers Larry, Rick, and Kenny Roberts; and a host of nieces, nephews, extended family members and friends.

Funeral services will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, December 4, 2010 at Clinkingbeard Funeral Home, Gainesville, MO with Jeff Dotson officiating. Burial will be in the Ozarks Memorial Park Cemetery, Branson, MO. Visitation will be Friday evening from 5 -7 p.m. at the funeral home.