Merle Catherine Wilfred

Merle Catherine Wilfred (Stratos), 67, of Akron, Ohio, passed away, Wednesday, March 25th, peacefully at home after bravely battling a recurrence of small cell lung cancer, surrounded by the love of her family.

Merle was a devoted daughter, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend whose warmth and kindness touched the lives of everyone she met. She was well known in the community as a longtime server at Farmer Boy Restaurant, where her friendly smile and genuine care made her beloved by customers and coworkers alike. Earlier in her life, she also worked at Lindsay’s Amber Restaurant and Mel’s Diner, forming lasting friendships and connections wherever she went.

Born into a large and loving family as one of eleven children, Merle carried that same deep sense of family throughout her life. She cherished time spent with her children and found immense joy in watching her grandchildren grow, especially cheering them on at their sporting events. Her love, strength, and dedication were evident in the way she lived; always putting others first.

A proud graduate of Springfield High School, Class of 1977, Merle was a hardworking and resilient woman who spent much of her life as a devoted single mother, raising her children with unwavering love and determination.

She is survived by her four children: Karri Wilfred; Jon Wilfred (Lourie); Kelly Simpkins (Wesley); Andrew Stratos (Cora); and preceded in death by her cherished angel baby, Bobbi Jo Wilfred, who passed away at just 12 days old. She was a proud grandmother to Steven Lewis III (Caitlyn), Madyson Wilfred, Brysyn Frashuer, Lillian Simpkins, Dwayne Frashuer II, Vada McAlpin, Jaymes Frashuer, Felix Simpkins, Koen McAlpin, and Lucille Simpkins, and a great-grandmother to Diana Lewis.

Merle is also survived by her loving mother, Theresa Stratos, and her siblings: Maria Hillard (David), John Stratos, Rebecca Haynes, James Stratos (Shannon), Gerald Stratos (Kathleen), Joseph Stratos (Rebecca), Rochelle Reynolds (Timothy), Angela Hymes (James), and Paula Stratos; and many, many nieces and nephews that she held near and dear to her heart. She was preceded in death by her father, John Stratos, and her sister, Tredel Lanham (Rod).

Merle will be remembered as a kind, loving soul and a bright light in the lives of all who knew her. Her strength, compassion, and unwavering love for her family will never be forgotten. She will be deeply missed every day, and her memory will live on in the hearts of those who loved her.

Family and friends are invited to visit Thursday, April 2, 2026 from 5 to 8 p.m. and also Friday, April 3 from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Newcomer, Akron Chapel, 131 N. Canton Rd. The funeral service will follow at 12:30 p.m. Friday. Interment will take place at Hillside Memorial Park.

To share a memory of Merle or leave a special message with her family, please visit the guest book below.