Merle Jay Royer

Merle Jay Royer, 96, of Quincy, Wash., passed away peacefully Dec. 9, 2025, surrounded by family. Born on Sept. 14, 1929, near Industry, Ill., Merle grew up in Illinois and Colorado before making Quincy his lifelong home.

Merle met the love of his life, Wilma Whitbeck, at a small church gathering in Quincy, and they married in 1957. Together they raised four children and built a life centered on faith, family and community.

A farmer at heart, Merle stepped into a new season of life when health concerns required him to work out of the sun. With Wilma and family, he faithfully operated Coast to Coast Hardware, later Royer’s True Value, for 38 years. Merle was known for his work ethic, generosity, and the way he treated every customer with dignity and care.

His faith in Jesus shaped every part of his life. He served faithfully at Quincy Free Methodist Church, where he and Wilma worshiped throughout their marriage.

Merle was preceded in death by his parents and brothers. He is survived by his wife of 68 years, Wilma; his children, Janet (Ed) Brown, Betty (Mitch) Simon, Nancy (Kevin) Dunbar and Andrew (Ruth) Royer; nine grandchildren; 18 great-grandchildren; and his sisters, Catherine Desmond and Doris Davis.

A memorial service will be held Dec. 15, 2025, at 11 a.m. at Quincy Free Methodist Church, with a graveside service at 10 a.m. and a meal to follow.