Graveside services for Merrill Lee Trayler, 90, West Plains, Missouri, will be held at 10:00 a.m., Friday, August 28, 2026, at Pottersville Cemetery, under the direction of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.

Mr. Trayler passed away Friday, August 14, 2026 at his home. 

He was born May 10, 1936, to Roy Trayler and Dorothea Mary (Fitzgerald) Trayler. Mr. Trayler was a proud veteran, having served with the United States Air Force; he served his country with honor and dedication. Lee was a man who found joy in life's simple pleasures. He loved woodworking, fishing with his father-in-law in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, spending time on the porch with his dog, Cook-E, big band jazz, mowing his yard, and most of all, being surrounded by his children and grandchildren. He had a wonderful sense of humor, a love for bad jokes, a mischievous smile, and a quick, smart wit that made him unforgettable to those who knew him. A lifelong fan of Looney Tunes, Lee never lost his playful spirit. At the age of 50, he even learned to roller skate—proof that he was never too old to try something new. Lee had a few sayings that reflected his wisdom and personality. He often reminded others, “Remember to always think it thru,” and with his characteristic humor and wit, he would say, “Youth and ability are no match for age and deceit.” Those words, like his smile and laughter, will be remembered by the many people whose lives he touched.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Judith (White) Trayler; his daughter, Kandi, and husband, Doug Stroud, West Plains, Missouri; his two sons, Randall “Randy” Trayler and wife, Sherry, of Australia and Russell “Layne” Trayler, Pottersville, Missouri; his grandchildren, Fint Phillips, Kyria Stroud and Felicia Mock; and many beloved nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents and one sister, Patricia (Trayler) Dickhoff.

Memorial contributions may be made to Pottersville Cemetery, and may be left at or mailed to Robertson-Drago Funeral Home, 211 W. Main St., West Plains, Missouri.