G. Maxine Merz

Celebrating the Life of G. Maxine Merz

August 9,1934 - November 5,2026

Maxine Merz, a devoted wife, incredible mother, adoring grandmother, great-grandmother, great¬great-grandmother and cherished friend, went home to be with the Lord on 11-5-2026. She leaves behind a legacy of love, faith, and quiet strength that will forever live in the hearts of those who knew her.

Bom on August 9,1934, to the late James and Anna Brayfield, she grew up surrounded by the warmth of a large family alongside her siblings: Mildred, Paul, John, Gladys, Gene, and Dale. On July 12,1952, she married the love of her life, Joseph Merz, beginning a beautiful 65-year journey of togetherness, shared dreams, and deep commitment.

Throughout her life, Maxine poured her heart into creating a loving home as a dedicated housewife. She also spent time working at A. O. Smith, where she was known for her diligence and warm personality. Her faith was the cornerstone of her life, and she was a faithful, active member of the Huber Heights Church of God, where her kind spirit touched many.

Maxine found her greatest joy in the simple, beautiful moments: camping trips in the great outdoors, crocheting handmade treasures for those she loved, and enthusiastically attending every child’s and grandchild’s event she could. Her family was her pride and joy, and nothing brought her more happiness than seeing her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren thrive.

She often reflected on her journey with deep gratitude, frequently sharing how thankful she was for the wonderful, rich life she had lived. While her loss brings profound sadness and saying goodbye is so very difficult, her family finds comfort and assurance in knowing she is peacefully in the presence of her Savior.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Joseph Merz. She is survived by her children, Jim Merz, Bill (Ruth) Merz and Peggy Clendening (Brad); her grandchildren, Jessica, Nathan, Ian, Carrie, Jason, Misty, Brian and Chris; her great-grandchildren Stetson, Braydon, Kaden, Ethan, Bennie, Paisley, Jamison, Reighlyn, Alayna, Garrett, Daylyn, Cola, Matthew, Madison, Kinley and Zeke and great-great-grandchildren Brantley and Lane; and many loving extended family members and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, James and Anna, and her siblings.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in her honor to Outreach ministries at Huber Heights Church of God or The Brent Clendening Memorial Scholarship at Bethel High School.

Funeral Services & Memorials

• Visitation: November 15,2026 from 4:00 pm to 6:0pm at Huber Heights Church of God

• Funeral Service: November 16,2026 at 10:00 am at Huber Heights Church of God

• Officiants: Pastor Jerry Webb, Pastor Chris Merz, Pastor Dwight Bruggeman

• Interment: Bethel West Cemetery