Merrily Ann Christensen passed away at her home in Grain Valley on July 10, 2025. She was born on April 11, 1934, to Lester and Claudia Scott in Springfield, Missouri. As an Easter baby, she was affectionately nicknamed “Bunny” — a name that stayed with her for most of her lifetime until she joyfully embraced the title “Granny” with the arrival of her grandchildren.
Merrily shared 64 years of marriage with her husband, Ric Christensen, until his passing in 2016. Together, they built a life filled with love, laughter, and family. She is lovingly remembered by her three children: Scott (Virginia), Randi (Jay Hart), and Carissa (Tim Crabtree); her seven grandchildren; and her eight great-grandchildren, who were the light of her life. She is preceded in death by her brothers John William (Bill/Bub) and Lester (Ronnie).
Bunny enjoyed an idyllic childhood as the daughter of a respected police officer and cherished her many friendships. She was active with the “Kilties” and graduated from Springfield Central High School in 1952. Throughout her life, she was a devoted mother and grandmother, always supporting her family’s dreams and celebrating their every accomplishment. Her greatest joy came from simply being together with the ones she loved most.
Merrily spent many years working in the Truman High School cafeteria before beginning a career at The Independence Examiner, where she advanced from advertising clerk to overseeing newspaper layout. In her later years, she found delight in her beloved pets, tending her garden, watching the birds outside her window, and enjoying her favorite shows — Family Feud, Wheel of Fortune, and Antiques Roadshow.
Known to all as Merrily, Bunny, or Granny, she brought warmth, kindness, and joy to everyone she met. Her gentle spirit and unwavering love will be deeply missed and forever remembered.
Services are pending.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Merrily’s memory to The Humane Society of Greater Kansas City, 5445 Parallel Parkway, Kansas City, KS 66104, or online at www.hsgkc.org.
Obituary submitted by family
Arrangements: Royer Funeral Home Grain Valley, MO 64075 816-847-4441