Michael Ray Merlene

Michael Ray Merlene of Halifax, Virginia passed away on September 21, 2026 at the age of 64. He was born in Ashtabula, OH on May 29, 1962 to Kathleen Merlene who survives and the late David Merlene, Sr. He was married for 40 years to Lori Cooper Merlene who survives.

Michael had a strong Christian Faith. He retired from commercial Real Estate and then worked part-time as an associate at Lowe’s. He enjoyed kayaking, was an excellent cook, loved anything to do with history, reading biographies, and was a huge fan of the Dallas Cowboys.

In addition to his wife and mother he is survived by his children, Joey Merlene (Crystal) of Little Elm, TX, Joshua Merlene (Allison) of Pilot Point, TX, and Rachel Merlene (Chris O’Neil) of Wake Forest, NC; seven grandchildren, Benito, Leonardo, Luke, Greyson, Nevaeh, Norah and Liam; three brothers, David Merlene (Leslie) of Frisco, TX, Mark Merlene (Jenn) of Plano, TX, and John Merlene (Cheri) of Highland Village, TX.

A funeral service will be held on Saturday, September 26, 2026 at 11:00 A.M. at Powell Funeral Home with the Rev. Jamie Burnette officiating.

The family will receive friends Saturday immediately following the service at Powell Funeral Home.

For memorials, please consider Halifax County Cancer Association, P.O. Box 1891, Halifax, VA 24558 or the Kiwanis Club, SOVA Innovation Hub Training Space, 715 Wilborn Avenue South Boston VA 24592.

Online condolences may be directed to www.powellfuneralinc.com.

Arrangements entrusted to Powell Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 1603 Wilborn Ave., South Boston, VA 24592.