
Class of 1973
1973 Maroon Spotlight
Merle Harmon
1973 Graduation EditionPerry Daily Journal
Merle Clifton Harmon is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Tom Snider, 9 Highland. He was born July 6, 1955 in Perry. Her attended Enid vocational-technical school 1971-72, and participated in baseball and vocational agriculture 1969-70. He was Future Farmers of America reporter in the ninth grade. Shop is his favorite subject and he lists girls as his hobby. He plans to work after graduation and maybe be in a band. He does not plan to go to college.
Merle Clifton Harmon
July 6, 1955 – August 22, 2025
Merle Clifton Harmon, a beloved husband, father, and music aficionado, peacefully passed away at his home in Lucien on August 22, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.
Born in Perry, Oklahoma on July 6, 1955, he was the son of Coy “Buddy” Harmon and Bernita Doreen (Melton) Snider. A proud graduate of Perry Public Schools, Class of 1973, Merle showcased a remarkable talent as a carpenter and later pursued his passion by owning and operating a music studio in Enid, Oklahoma. Renowned for his skillful hands and a melodious spirit, he played an array of instruments, including the guitar and piano, inspiring countless others to embrace their own musical journeys.
Merle’s character was marked by his sweet, gentle nature. He was not only a hardworking man but also a fun-loving and warm dad and husband who always found ways to bring joy to those around him. His profound love for music was matched only by his devotion to his family, making him a cherished figure in their lives.
Merle was preceded in death by his mother, Bernita Doreen Melton and step-father Tom Snider who instilled in him the values of love and respect that he carried throughout his life, as well as Mara Harmon- the mother of Sheila and Stephanie.
He is survived by his loving wife, Joyce Inselman, whose companionship brought him immense happiness. Father Coy “Buddy” Harmon and his wife Janet. Merle’s legacy continues through his daughters, Sheila Anderson of Mississippi and Stephanie Slavens of Missouri, along with his sons, Ryan Harmon and Harley Harmon and his wife Hannah, residing in Enid. His grandchildren-Kaysha Watkins husband Michael, Brock Anderson, Jeffrey Deason, Tesla Brown and her wife, Kaylee, Havyn Thompson, and Hudson Harmon-along with great-grandchildren Adelynn Martin, Kaius Watkins, Daniel Watkins, and Hannah Watkins will carry forward his vibrant spirit and passion.
Merle is also remembered by his siblings: sister Dee Steed and husband Joe, and Debbie Bolay, brothers Tom Snider wife Rita, Royce Snider wife Missy, Eddie Snider wife Rhonda, Terry Harmon and wife Brenda, and Richard Agee and wife Melissa, along with numerous nieces and nephews, will hold his memory close to their hearts.
The funeral service will be held at Lucien Faith Church on August 27,2025 beginning at 2 p.m. with Pastor Lana and Don Knott presiding. Followed by a burial at McGuire Cemetery.