Merlin Ellis Johnson

Merlin Ellis Johnson
April 24, 1937 – May 28, 2025

Merlin Ellis Johnson, 88, of Edmond, OK, passed peacefully into heaven on May 28, 2025, at Jasmine Estates of Edmond. Born in Centralia, IL, he was the beloved son of Bruce and Carrie Johnson and the only brother to three sisters. He was raised on the family farm in a tight-knit, faith-filled community.

Merlin began his education in a one-room schoolhouse beside Zion Hill Baptist Church and graduated from Centralia High School. Gifted in music from a young age, he learned piano and organ from his mother and pursued this passion at Asbury College in Wilmore, KY, where he sang in a traveling men’s quartet.

He continued his studies at the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, later earning a master’s in music from Vanderbilt University and a master’s in education from Scarritt College.

On September 8, 1961, Merlin married the love of his life, Sharon, in Olney, IL. They later settled in Nashville, beginning a life of ministry and music together.

Merlin served as a Minister of Music for over 40 years in Methodist churches across Illinois, Indiana, Tennessee, Alabama, and Kentucky. A highlight of his ministry was founding the Friendship Singers, a high school ensemble that performed both nationally and internationally.

Later in life, Merlin transitioned to a successful career in financial planning before retiring in 2014. In retirement, he remained vibrant and active—enjoying travel, gardening, home projects, and sharing his musical talents. He sang with the Crystal Cathedral Choir in California, spent winters on Balboa Island near his grandchildren, and ultimately moved full-time to Oklahoma to be closer to more family.

He was preceded in death by his sister Donna Brueggeman and brother-in-law Jim Brueggeman.

Merlin is survived by his loving wife of 64 years, Sharon; daughters Jan Moorad, Julie (Joel) Grubbs, Jill (Gregg) Olson; grandchildren, Justin Moorad, Brett (Savanne) Olson, Christopher Moorad, Brooke Olson, Ashley Olson, Blake Moorad, Joshua Grubbs, Ryan Olson, Sydney Grubbs, Shelby Grubbs;  great granddaughter, Savanna Charles (Charli) Olson; sisters Lois (Charles) Polstra, Clara (Jim) Coleman; many nieces and nephews.

Merlin’s legacy lives on through his faith, music, and the family he cherished.

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