Lori Michelle Merck Heard, age 53, of Clarkesville, passed away on Monday, July 12, 2021. 

Born on February 7, 1968, in Gainesville, she was the daughter of Walt Merck of Panama City, Florida, and the late Jeanne Martin Merck. Mrs. Heard was a homemaker, enjoyed making jewelry, and found beauty in everything. Her children were her life and she loved them deeply. 

In addition to her mother, she was also preceded in death by her husband, Billy Heard. 

Survivors in addition to her father include her son, Joshua Aaron Heard of Clarkesville; daughter, Hannah Naomi Heard of Clarkesville; stepmother, Paula Merck of Panama City, FL; sister, Jennifer Perini of Janesville, WI; and numerous other relatives and friends. 

The family will receive friends from 10 am until 12 noon on Monday, July 19, 2021, at McGahee-Griffin & Stewart Funeral Home. 

An online guest register is available and may be viewed at www.mcgaheegriffinandstewart.com. 

McGahee-Griffin & Stewart Funeral Home of Cornelia, Georgia (706/778-8668) is in charge of arrangements.