Merle Bond Mendheim

Merle Bond Mendheim, 94, died peacefully at home surrounded by family in Macon, Georgia, on Monday, April 7, 2025. She was born in Henry County, Newville, Alabama, on January 15, 1931, to the late Rayford and Lucille Bond. The family lived in Abbeville during her childhood years. Her love of children was evident as she cared for her two younger siblings during her mother’s extended illness.

Merle graduated from Montevallo College with a B.A. in Early Education in 1952.  She taught school in Bibb County’s Agnes Garden, Heard, Ingram-Pye, and Cross Keys Academy, where she served as principal.

In 1955, Merle married Doyle Edison Mendheim, Sr. He was her beloved husband and preceded her in death.

She was member of the First Baptist Church of Christ in Macon for more than 40 years.  Merle taught Sunday School there, served as a deacon, and was also a member of the choir.  Her home was a haven for many family members, friends, and anyone in need.

Merle is survived by her son, Eddie Mendheim; her daughters, Kaye Rawls, Beth Freeman (Steve Freeman), and Leah Berryhill (Eddie Berryhill); her grandchildren, April Wade, Joseph Lipford, Alicia Moore, Nicholas Swain, and Dustin Swain; and her eleven great grandchildren.

Memorial services will be held at the First Baptist Church of Christ on 2:00 PM on Saturday, April 12, 2025.  Pastor Julie Long will officiate with a reception following in the Fellowship Hall.  In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the First Baptist Church of Christ.

Please visit www.hartsmort.com to express your condolences.

Hart’s Mortuary, 765 Cherry Street, Macon, Georgia 31201, has charge of the arrangements.