Merilyn P. Osborne, loving wife and mother, passed away peacefully at home in Moore, SC surrounded by her family on December 29, 2021. Born in Concord, North Carolina, Merilyn was the oldest of three children. She was married for nearly 50 years to Robert E. Osborne, USMC (Ret), and made a wonderful life for them and their three children. Having traveled to and living in numerous places with “her Marine”, they gave their family the experience of meeting new people and making lifelong friends. Merilyn was a strong believer in her Lord and Savior and routinely spread the Word of the Gospel to many people over the years.
She is preceded in death by her mother, Gaynell Knowles, and her father, James O. Knowles. Merilyn leaves behind her husband, Robert E. Osborne of Moore, SC, a daughter, DeeDee R. Davis (Scott) of Terryville, CT, and two sons, Trent Torrence (Kathy) of Goldsboro, NC, Rob Osborne (Lisa) of Greenville, SC. She also leaves behind a sister, Sherry Chesnut (Ray) of China Grove, NC, and Stephen Patterson (Patricia) of Cordova, TN. In addition to her children and siblings, she leaves behind four grandchildren, Keli’i Whitley (Margaret) of Manchester, NH, Adam Whitley of Naugatuck, CT, Allen Torrence (Rachel) of Poquoson, VA, Brittany Torrence of Oklahoma City, OK, and Hannah Osborne of Murrells Inlet, SC. Merilyn leaves behind four great-grandchildren belonging to Kelii and Margaret Whitley.
“Mother” touched the lives of many over her life and her passing has created an unfillable void for the family. She will be greatly missed by all those who knew her, but her memory and spirit will live on in all of us. As we look Heavenward, we know she is looking down and watching over us all. May she rest in peace and walk with the Lord.