Meryl Ann Yoxall

Meryl Ann Yoxall

Nov. 16, 1933 - Dec. 15, 2022

NAPA - Meryl Ann passed away peacefully at her home on December 15, 2022, surrounded by loving family.

She was born in Tucson, AZ, to Wesley and Helga Hayes and had one brother, Wes. The family lived on an Indian Reservation in Peach Springs, where her father was employed. Her father took work at Mare Island Naval Shipyard in 1940 as the U.S. started to build up for World War II. The family moved to Vallejo, CA, (which seven-yr. old Meryl called "Lavejo") and settled in Carquinez Heights. There, Wes and Meryl had plenty of adventures; she earned the nickname "Sis" and a reputation as a bit of a showoff. On one especially memorable day, Meryl fell in San Pablo Bay while playing with her brother and her friends on a dock. Although neither she, nor her brother could swim, Wes jumped into the murky water and somehow brought her to safety. This was one of many instances where family was the most important thing in Meryl's life.

Meryl graduated from Vallejo High School and then UC Berkeley, earning a degree in Journalism and minors in English and History. Her love of reading lasted throughout her lifetime, and she always had a magazine or novel beneath her reading light waiting when she finished the Napa Register. This love of language and the written word led her to a teaching career that spanned five decades.

Always looking out for his Little Sis, brother Wes introduced her to his good friend Don Messner, another Vallejo High School alumnus who was home on leave from the Air Force. Their courtship began at the local drive-in. Their romance grew, and they married in 1955. Shortly thereafter, they moved to Napa, where they both began teaching careers. Along the way, Meryl and Don had three children: Douglas, David, and Diane. They were very happy with their growing family, teaching careers, and new house with ample space to grow. Unfortunately, the happiness was fleeting. Tragedy struck and Don passed away from an illness in 1967.

As a single mother, Meryl strove with hard work and determination to give her kids the idyllic Napa life that she and Don sought. While raising her three young children, she taught full-time at Westwood Elementary School where she stayed until her retirement in 1994. Meryl loved working with younger children and teaching them to read, including all her children and grandchildren. She instilled her love of learning and work ethic in all her family.

In 1972, an old acquaintance, Dick Yoxall, came by to ask Meryl why she hadn't signed a petition to stop him from developing nearby land. Meryl's answer apparently satisfied Dick; they quickly became a couple and married in 1973. The family continued to grow as Dick's son Steve joined the other kids. Dick and Meryl welcomed their daughter Patricia in 1974. In 1977, Dick and Meryl became the legal guardians to Russ Orrick. Together, the family went to many baseball and college football games. They also took numerous vacations skiing in the Sierras and relaxing on Southern California beaches.

In retirement, Dick and Meryl traveled to USC football games, spent time in Tahoe (at Harrah's sportsbook), and followed their grandkids' games and events. Meryl's happiest times were spent surrounded by her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren whom she loved dearly. The family had many joyous Easter, Fourth of July, and Christmas Eve celebrations at her home. Meryl's was known for her famous breakfast casserole, preference for (cheap) white wine on ice, and her love of reading. She will be remembered as the beloved matriarch of her large family.

The family sincerely thanks Maria Parra who gave Meryl loving care during her last year.

Meryl is survived by her children: Doug (DeDe) Messner of Napa, Dave (Tracey) Messner of Santa Barbara, Diane Messner of Napa, Patricia Beardsley of Napa, Steve (Peggy) Yoxall of Gulf Shores, AL, Trina Orrick of Raymond, IA; 17 grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; her nephew and nieces: Mike, Mallory, and Susan; and special family friend, Rich (Linda) Burk. Meryl joins her parents; brother, Wes; husbands: Don and Dick; and son, Russell Orrick in heaven.

There will be a celebration of her life at the Tulocay Chapel on February 24, 2023 at 2:00 p.m.

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