Merrill Gene Shelley

Merrill Gene Shelley passed away on June 30, 2025, in Temple, Texas, at the age of 88. Born on December 4, 1936, in Guthrie Center, Iowa, to Lowell and Wilma Shelley, Merrill lived a life marked by hard work and dedication.

A viewing will be held at Dossman Funeral Home in Belton, Texas, on July 6, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM, followed by a funeral service at the same location on July 7, 2025, at 10:00 AM.

Merrill worked in many fields, including as a pilot, aircraft mechanic, musician, barber, and farmer. He also founded a family-owned car dealership, now run by his sons and grandson, which remains a valued part of the community. An avid fisherman, he enjoyed spending time on the water.

Merrill is survived by his wife, Barbara; children, Leslie Shelley (Lesa), Zachary Shelley (Teresa), Laura Smith (Ronnie), and Teresa Hughes; 12 grandchildren; 20 great-grandchildren; twin brother, Carroll Shelley; and sister, Gloria Pearson. He was preceded in death by his parents, Lowell and Wilma Shelley.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to a local charity of your choice in Merrill’s honor.