Merry Beth Herrington Lyons, 80, of Saucier, Mississippi, passed away on June 3, 2026.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Tommy Lyons of Learned, Mississippi, her parents, Jesse and Lerlene Herrington of Jackson, Mississippi and her son-in-law Travis Leggett, Sr. of Saucier Mississippi.

Merry is survived by her children, Carol Leggett of Saucier, Mississippi, Lori Travis (Troy) of Sulphur Springs, Texas, and Todd Cook of Levelland, Texas; her grandchildren, Travis Leggett, Jr. (Chantella), Jesse Leggett, and Cayden Cook of Saucier, Mississippi; Cody Smith (Megan) of Olive Branch, Mississippi; Parker Travis (Adi) of Brookhaven, Mississippi; Katelyn Travis of Sulphur Springs, Texas; Amanda Hopkins (Tim) and Josh Cook of Florence, Mississippi; Landon Lumpkin-Hill of Albany, Kentucky; and Lilly Lumpkin-Hill of Latimer, Mississippi; seven great-grandchildren; her siblings, Pat Farmer (Carroll) of Semmes, Alabama and Gail McCoy (Tony) of Covington, Louisiana; as well as a multitude of extended family and friends.

In high school, Merry joined with two friends to form a singing group called the Del Sols that performed in the community and with some of the biggest names in music of that time. Her family enjoyed hearing her tell of that time in her life and cherish the memorabilia that remains to remind us of her early passion for music.

Merry will be remembered by many for her years working at her children's school and driving a school bus during their childhood. She also touched countless lives during her time at Hinds Community College. Later in life, she discovered a passion for nursing and pursued her degree at an age when many would have considered it too late. Her determination led to a rewarding career as a Registered Nurse, serving in hospitals, nursing homes, and home health care settings.

An avid reader, Merry amassed an impressive collection of books throughout her lifetime. Her children can certainly attest to the size of that collection after helping move it several times over the years. She also found great joy in growing flowers and plants, tending to them faithfully whenever she was able. Above all, she cherished time spent with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Perhaps her most unexpected pastime was her love for video and computer games, which she enjoyed playing daily and enthusiastically.

A visitation will be held on Monday, June 8, 2026, from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at Riemann Family Funeral Home, 11280 Three Rivers Road, Gulfport. A graveside service will be held on Tuesday, June 9, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at Salem Baptist Cemetery, 2666 Learned Rd, Raymond, MS 39154, Mississippi.

The family extends its heartfelt gratitude to the staffs of Deaconess Home Health and Deaconess Hospice for the exceptional care provided to our mother during her final days.

Your compassion, kindness, and dedication brought great comfort to both her and our family, and we are deeply grateful.

Riemann Family Funeral Home in Gulfport is assisting her family.