Merle Hay Funeral Home

01/06/2026

Blair A. Overton has been a licensed funeral director since 1992. Raised in Traer, Iowa, Blair was a 1986 graduate of North Tama High School and continued his education at the University of Iowa, where he graduated with a degree in economics in 1990.

Blair received his education in mortuary sciences at the New England Institute in Boston, Massachusetts. Upon graduation in 1991, he received the Fredrick J. Walker Award for highest academic average and the Founders Award for the most promise of outstanding contribution to funeral service. While in Boston, Blair worked full time for the J. S. Waterman & Sons Funeral Home.

Returning to Iowa, Blair has served families for almost thirty years. He has owned and operated funeral homes in small towns and the greater Des Moines metroplex, as well as a cremation society and two cemeteries. Blair takes pride in helping families arrange for a fitting celebration of life.

Blair and his wife Whitney raised their sons, Alexander, Tyler, and Ryan in Johnston, Iowa. Upon becoming empty nesters they moved to the south side of Des Moines

Blair A. Overton ha sido director de funeraria con licencia desde 1992. Criado en Traer, Iowa, Blair se graduó de la escuela secundaria North Tama en 1986 y continuó su educación en la Universidad de Iowa, donde se graduó con un título en economía en 1990.
Blair recibió su educación en ciencias mortuorias en el New England Institute en Boston, Massachusetts. Al graduarse en 1991, recibió el premio Fredrick J. Walker por el promedio académico más alto y el premio Founders por la mayor promesa de contribución destacada al servicio funerario. Mientras estuvo en Boston, Blair trabajó a tiempo completo para la funeraria JS Waterman & Sons.

Blair regresó a Iowa y ha prestado servicios a familias durante casi treinta años. Ha sido propietario y administrador de funerarias en pequeñas ciudades y en el área metropolitana de Des Moines, así como de una sociedad de cremación y dos cementerios. Blair se enorgullece de ayudar a las familias a organizar una celebración digna de la vida.

Blair y su esposa Whitney criaron a sus hijos, Alexander, Tyler y Ryan, en Johnston, Iowa. Cuando sus hijos ya no estaban en casa, se mudaron al sur de Des Moines

01/01/2026

As we transition into a New Year, we know that for many, the journey of grief doesn’t reset with the calendar.

We want you to know that our doors and our hearts remain open to you. Whether it’s been months or years since we served your family, we are still here—and we will continue to be here—to offer a listening ear and a helping hand.

Wishing you a gentle and peaceful 2026.

Al comenzar un nuevo año, sabemos que para muchos, el proceso de duelo no termina con el cambio de calendario.

Queremos que sepan que nuestras puertas y nuestros corazones permanecen abiertos para ustedes. Ya hayan pasado meses o años desde que brindamos nuestros servicios a su familia, seguimos aquí, y seguiremos estando aquí, para escucharlos y brindarles nuestro apoyo.

Les deseamos un 2026 tranquilo y sereno.

12/24/2025

The holidays often feel different when there is an empty chair at the table. While the world outside may be bright and busy, we know that for many in our community, this season is a quiet journey of remembrance.

Please be gentle with yourself. There is no "right" way to celebrate, and it’s okay if your version of the holidays looks a little different this year. We are holding you in our thoughts. 🤍

Important Note: Our support for your family remains constant. We are available 24 hours a day for calls. Please be aware that funeral services and burials continue to be held throughout the season, regardless of our holiday office hours.

Las festividades suelen sentirse diferentes cuando hay una silla vacía en la mesa. Mientras el mundo exterior puede parecer brillante y ajetreado, sabemos que para muchos en nuestra comunidad, esta temporada es un camino silencioso de nostalgia y recuerdo.

Por favor, sea amable consigo mismo. No existe una forma "correcta" de celebrar, y está bien si su versión de las fiestas se ve un poco diferente este año. Lo tenemos presente en nuestros pensamientos. 🤍

Nota importante: Nuestro apoyo a su familia permanece constante. Estamos disponibles las 24 horas del día para atender sus llamadas. Tenga en cuenta que los servicios funerarios y entierros se siguen llevando a cabo durante toda la temporada, independientemente del horario de atención de nuestra oficina.

12/09/2025

https://www.merlehayfuneralhome.com/post/dennis-lee-mielke

Dennis Lee Mielke, 73, of Ankeny, Iowa, passed away on December 6, 2025, at Bethany Life in Story City. Dennis was born on December 3, 1952, in Des Moines, Iowa, to Walter “Bud” and Margaret Mielke.Family and friends are invited to gather for visitation on Thursday, December 11 from 5:00–7:00 ...

12/06/2025

https://www.merlehayfuneralhome.com/post/norma-brodie

Norma Brodie, born January 14, 1937, in Burlington, Iowa, passed away on December 3, 2025, at Spurgeon Manor in Dallas Center, Iowa. She grew up on her family’s farm near New London, where her happy spirit, quick wit, and love of music and learning first took shape.A 1954 graduate of New London Hi...

12/03/2025

https://www.merlehayfuneralhome.com/post/alice-marie-beardsley

Alice Marie Beardsley, 97, of Ankeny Iowa, passed from this world to her eternal home in heaven on Friday, November 28, 2025, at Mill Pond Care Center in Ankeny.Alice was born on October 6, 1928, in Barney, Iowa; she was the daughter of Orra E. Berry and Margaret “Pearl” Berry. Alice attended sc...

11/26/2025

Choosing a locally owned funeral home means your family receives personal, compassionate attention from people who truly know and care about your community. It ensures decisions are made with integrity to support your family during this time.

Reach out to us to experience compassionate, community-focused care.

11/24/2025

Behind the scenes, our team meticulously coordinates every detail, from personalized arrangements to compassionate support, ensuring every family feels respected and cared for. Every decision is guided by a commitment to dignity, comfort, and honoring the life being remembered.

Let us help you plan a special celebration of life for your loved one.

11/21/2025

Healing is a journey, and every step brings light and comfort to the heart. Find peace of mind by allowing us to help you create a meaningful farewell.

Connect with our team today.

11/20/2025

Understanding funeral financing and pre-need plans gives families peace of mind by easing future burdens and ensuring every detail is handled according to their wishes. Our funeral care team guides you through each option with compassion and clarity, helping you make confident choices.

Plan ahead with confidence by exploring your pre-need and financing options today.

10/29/2025

Our affordable cremation packages are designed to provide dignity and peace of mind without financial strain. Our compassionate team ensures every detail is handled with care, making the process simple and respectful for your family.

Explore our packages and find peace of mind for your family today.

10/22/2025

Every life is unique, and so should be its celebration. From meaningful rituals to special touches, we help families create a tribute that reflects your loved one’s unique life and legacy.

Call today to get started planning their unique celebration of life.