It is with heavy hearts that we announce the death of Mrs. Dorothy Merlene Easterling, 87, of West Monroe, Louisiana. Private family services were held on Friday, September 4, 2026, at Chatham Cemetery under the direction of Mulhearn Funeral Home.

Mrs. Easterling was born on September 13th, 1938, in Eros, Louisiana and passed away peacefully on September 2, 2026, at St. Francis Medical Center surrounded by her loving family.

Merlene was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother whose greatest joy was her family. Before her retirement, she served as the supervisor of Medical Records at Glenwood Regional Medical Center.

She cherished every opportunity to make memories with those she loved, especially traveling with Bo in their RV, playing Pokeno with her daughters and granddaughters, attending NASCAR races, and enjoying their annual tacky-sweater bowling Christmas party. She especially loved watching TP Outdoors Adventures when her great-grandchildren were featured, as well as trips to the casino. Merlene’s love for Dr. Pepper was one of those sweet little things that made her uniquely her. A cold Dr. Pepper always brought a smile to her face and became a fond part of the everyday moments her family will forever remember and cherish.

Merlene was preceded in death by her parents, Breard and Letha Zeigler; her late husband, Marvin Madden; and grandson-in-law, Nick Greener.

Those left to cherish her memory are her husband, Mr. Bo Easterling; daughters, Susan Albritton (Dewitt), Judy Johnston (Jody), Wanda Fitts, and Lori Petrus (Bill); grandchildren, Chasity McVay (Miller), Clinton Johnston (Denaira), Ashley Rogers (Jake), Jessica Fitts (Greg), Casey Fitts, Betsy Greener, Emalee Bell (Brad); great grandchildren, Josie Johnston, Madden Johnston, Mae Mae, Rae, Heidi Beck Fitts-Hawkins, Bristol Greener, Benton Greener, Brody Bell and Berklee Bell; as well as a host of friends and loved ones.

Memorials in honor of Merlene’s memory may be made to The St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place Memphis, TN 38105.

Merlene’s warm heart, love for her family, and the countless memories she created will remain forever treasured. She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her.