Lee Ann served God through music over the past 30 years and considered God's blessings to be her reward.  She never asked for financial compensation for any of her service to God or to Man. 

Surviving her is her 16-year-old daughter, Laurel "Bunny" Merritt. 

Laurel should have all opportunities to gain credit before she leaves high school. Dual credit is inexpensive and can be used for 30 hours of her degree! In addition, we wish to ensure she can take CLEP tests. That could account for 30 more hours! With that computation, Laurel will need another 60 hours to complete her Bachelor's degree.  At $400 - $800 per 3-hour class, this adds up - even without considering a dormitory and meal plan.

The money collected through this effort will be put into a trust for Laurel.  It will be used to directly pay the institution of higher learning for her education costs. After Laurel turns 21, or after she completes her Bachelor's degree (assuming enough money will be collected) all proceeds will be converted for her personal use. If people are generous, this fund can start her into her Master's Degree.

Below, please read about Susan and me, and why we started this page after Mike and Laurel gave permission.


**Susan and Lee Ann about 1989**

Susan Wilder and I have known Lee Ann for 38 years. The three of us went to Scooba Tech together. Over the course of our adult lives, we have remained in contact, and never lost the strong bond we had. It is for that reason, and because of Laurel that we have posted this. 

Lee Ann, Susan, and I completed our Bachelor's degree at the same time. We supported each other through study dates, eating out, and laughing a lot.  None of us had a lot of financial support, and none of us had support outside or parents. Our husbands (all three ex-husbands now) did not approve!

Our tribute to Lee Ann will be to see her child through her bachelor's degree, providing emotional and financial support to her along the way.