Merilyn Pateña Tom passed away on August 26, 2024, at the age of 66, surrounded by her loved ones after a brave battle with pancreatic cancer.

Born and raised in Cebu City in the Philippines, Merilyn grew up with her parents, two sisters, and a brother. She attended the University of San Carlos where she earned a bachelor’s degree in commerce. Upon graduation she met her beloved husband, Charles David Tom, and together they made their home in Berlin Heights, Ohio.

Merilyn’s career spanned various roles, where she made a lasting impression on colleagues and friends alike. Eventually, she became the proud owner of the Hoop Sports Center, a cornerstone of the local community known for providing customized uniforms and sportswear to area schools.

Her greatest joy in life, however, came from her family. She was a devoted mother to her daughter Lisa, and she took immense pride in being a grandmother to Liam and Charlotte. She spent her last years cherishing every moment with them in Tampa, Florida.

Merilyn was preceded in death by her husband, Charles David Tom, as well as her parents, brother, and sister. She is survived by her daughter, Lisa Barnes, and son-in-law Vince, her adored grandchildren, Liam and Charlotte, her sister Rosalinda Linder, and several nieces and nephews.

A celebration of Merilyn’s life will take place on September 14, 2024, at 11 AM at 8109 E Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd, Tampa, FL 33619. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial donations be made to her GoFundMe account to assist with memorial expenses.

Your support, no matter how small, can truly make a difference in bringing Merilyn home to Ohio to rest alongside her late husband.

Honor Merilyn & Bring Her to Ohio - Your Help Needed! (gofundme.com)