Merle Ray Willey, 89, of Andrews passed away on Wednesday, February 8, 2017 in Odessa.
Family and friends will gather to celebrate his life at 4:00 PM Friday, February 10, 2017 at Graveside in Andrews West Cemetery with Rev. Kevin Covington officiating. Services are under the personal care of McNett Funeral Home in Andrews. Please celebrate the life of Merle by visiting www.mcnettfuneralhome.com.
Merle was born on July 23, 1927 in Stroud, Oklahoma to Joseph and Helen Hollon Willey. He attended school in Jal, New Mexico. Merle married Margaret Biddle on October 4, 1945 in Hobbs, New Mexico. He had worked in the oilfields as a driller, pumper and production foreman and consultant. Merle was a devout NASCAR fan and supporter of his favorite driver Carl Edwards in his # 19 car. Friends and family knew that during NASCAR races on television you did not talk, to Merle, you watched the race. He loved good food and always had to take a sample of all of the deserts if there was more than one served. Merle also loved to watch football, the Cowboys was his chosen team. He was preceded in death by his parents, a sister Wanda Swartz, and a nephew Danny Willey.
Merle is survived by his wife, Margaret Willey of Andrews, a brother Bob and his wife Sarah Willey of Andrews.
Donations may be made to the American Heart Association, 3205 W. Cuthbert Ave., Midland, TX 79701.
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