Avanell Silver Merrill, age 79, of Kelly Hunter Road passed away on Saturday, September 25, 2021. She is the daughter of the late John and Glen Hunter Silver. In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by a sister, Alene McDaris. Mrs. Merrill was a member of Bull Creek Missionary Baptist Church serving as the choir director, VBS director and treasurer as long as her health allowed. She was the owner and operator of Mars Hill Florist for several years. She lived for her family. Being a grandmother was her most enjoyable role.

She is survived by her husband of 61 years, Lowell Merrill; sons, Eric Merrill (Rhonda) and Casey Merrill (Tammy); grandchildren, Jared Merrill (Miranda), Katie and Bailey Merrill and several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

A funeral service will be held at 2:00PM Wednesday, September 29, 2021, at Robbie Capps Memorial Chapel of Blue Ridge Funeral Service. Reverends Wesley Pike, Mendle Baker, and Kevin Boone will officiate. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends from 12:30 – 2:00PM prior to the service.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.blueridgefuneralservice.org