Obituaries 10 February 2026

Christine “Chris” Rowley

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Christine “Chris” Rowley

Christine “Chris” Rowley (Merrick), 82, of Lynchburg, passed away peacefully on Feb. 8, 2026.

Chris was born on June 4, 1943, in Somerset, Ky., to Willie and Elizabeth Ellen (Jones) Merrick.  She was a beloved wife, mother, and grandmother whose life was rooted in love for her family and a deep faith in God that served as her strength and guide. Chris found her greatest joy in spending time with those she loved, sharing laughter, stories, and moments of fun that will be treasured forever. Her playful spirit, kind heart, and faithful devotion touched all who knew her, and her legacy of love and laughter will live on through her family.

Chris is survived by her loving husband of 63 years, Newton Rowley; her sons, Steven Rowley and Jeffrey (Kelli) Rowley; her daughters, Naomi Pratt and Miriam Huff, whom she lovingly raised; her four grandchildren, Erin (Cory) Qualls, Ethan Rowley, Emily Rowley, and Noah Rowley; her great-grandson, Caleb Qualls; her brother, Charles Merrick;  and several nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents, Chris was preceded in death by her sister, Icaleen “June” Thompson, and her brothers, Garvin, Bill, Don, Jarvis “Jay” and Marlin “Super” Merrick.

 In keeping with Chris’ wishes, there will be no public visitation prior to her funeral service, which will be held at noon on Friday, Feb. 13 at the Turner & Son Funeral Home in Hillsboro.  Kenny Zugg will officiate.  Burial will follow in the New Market Baptist Cemetery.  

Memorials may be made to the Lynchburg First Church of Christ, 131 Sycamore Street, Lynchburg, Ohio 45142, or the Hollowtown Church of Christ, 2630 South Hollowtown Road, Hillsboro, Ohio 45133.  

To leave an online condolence to the family, please visit www.turnerfuneralhomes.cc. 

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