Rosemary Merrick

Rosemary Merrick, 87, of Harrisonville, Missouri passed away on December 29, 2021. Rosemary was born on April 16, 1934, to Rush and Jane Whitmire in Charlotte, North Carolina. Rosemary met her beloved Austen on a train and their love story included 66 beautiful years together. Rosemary had three daughters and dedicated her life to being Austen's wife and raising their girls. She adored her daughters and grandchildren, loved spending time with them and taught them many life lessons. Before marrying Austen, Rosemary was a dancer, choreographer, physical education teacher and headed up many fun activities at her school. She always enjoyed modern dance and a good clog! Rosemary was best known for her loving heart, energy and sense of humor. Even in her last days she was cracking jokes. Rosemary loved to set a beautiful table, keep an immaculate house and fed her family and friends delicious meals.

No words can convey the true spirit of Rosie. If you were blessed enough to know her, then you know how wonderful she was. She will forever be in our hearts. She will forever be in Austen's arms, dancing to their song, Unchained Melody.

Rosemary was preceded in death by her parents, Rush Whitmire and Jane Harkins, her sister, Sarah Jane Starnes and her loving husband, Austen Merrick.

She is survived by her children, Brenda Harrington (Brian), Diane Schiever (Jef) and Dawn Belshe (Robert). Grandchildren Austen Belshe (Paige) and Kate Belshe and one great grandbaby boy on the way.

Private services for Rosemary Merrick will be Monday, January 10, 2022.  Graveside service at 2:00 pm at Longview Cemetery, 12700 SE Raytown Road, Kansas City, MO 64149.

The services are immediate family only. In lieu of flowers, the family is asking for memorial donations to the DREAMS Center for Arts Education, Wilmington, NC (givetodreams.org, click on $GIVE to donate).