Merle Raye Underwood

Merle was born on January 29th, 1933 in Beaumont, Texas to Max and Annie Sauermilch. Survivors are her husband of fifty-eight years, Jerry; her son, Glenn Underwood of Plant City, Florida; her daughters, Susan Schaffler of Wheaton, Illinois; Lori Fraas of Oviedo, Florida; and five grandchildren.

Merle spent most of her adolescence and young adult life in Houston, Texas. She attended the University of Texas majoring in business administration and she was a member of the Alpha Chi Omega Sorority.

She lived in many locales during her adult life as her husband’s career led to assignments in Houston, Dallas, Los Angeles and Tampa. Merle was active in real estate with Tambay Realty of Tampa, Florida until moving to Plant City in 1990

Merle loved bridge, sewing, and gardening and enjoyed playing golf in her later years. She was a Christian and a life long Lutheran. She is lovingly remembered as a sweet, gracious woman, a devoted wife and mother, and a cherished grandmother. A memorial service will be held on Friday, December 30, 2011 at 10 a.m. at Wells Memorial Chapel.

In lieu of flowers please make donations to LifePath Hospice or the charity of your choice.

Arrangements under the direction of Wells Memorial Funeral Home, Plant City, FL.