She dedicated many years to her career at General Dynamics before retiring. Afterward, she continued to serve her community for 26 more years at the Calhoun County Courthouse. Known for her boundless grace and generosity, she had an infectious smile that made everyone feel at ease. Her presence was a constant source of comfort and joy to her family, friends, and all who were fortunate to know her.

Her love for family knew no bounds. As a devoted sister, mother, grandmother, greatgrandmother, and great-greatgrandmother, Merline's legacy of compassion, patience, and unconditional love will live on in the hearts of those who knew her. Her home was a haven of warmth, laughter, and delicious meals—a place where everyone felt welcome and cherished.

Merline is preceded in death by her beloved husband, James W. Knight; two sons, Doug, and Dane Chandler; sisters Patsy Loomis, Marilyn Pitts, and Lois Green; and brothers Smead, Louis, Bill Edward, and Merl Dean Hooks.

Those left to celebrate her homecoming and cherish her memory include her siblings Joe Frank Hooks, Cecil Hooks, Marion Hooks, Peggy Morgan and Morris Jeffreys; a son, Stacey (Gina) Chandler of Woodberry; a daughter, Dee Dee (Paul) Owens of Fordyce; 9 grandchildren – Amanda Chandler, Coy Chandler, Tabatha Schneider, Toni White, TJ Chandler, Melissa Rowe, Ryan Haynes, Chandler Haynes, and Marina Thurmon; as well as 10 great grandchildren and 3 great-great grandchildren.

Pallbearers are Coy Chandler, TJ Chandler, Ryan Haynes, Chandler Haynes, Jimmy Rowe, and Paul Owens. Honorary pallbearers are Eli and Caleb Chandler.

Visitation will be from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm on Wednesday, January 1, 2025 at Benton Funeral Home in Hampton. Funeral services will be held 2:00 pm on Thursday, January 2, 2025 at Woodberry Baptist Church with Bro. Robbie Duncan officiating. Burial will follow at New Hope Cemetery. Arrangements are by Benton Funeral Home of Fordyce. To sign the online register visit www. bentonfuneralhome. net.