Dr. Merrill Boyd Epperson, veterinarian and longtime resident of Galion, Ohio, passed
away peacefully on November 8, 2025, surrounded by family. He was 91 years old.
Born in Galion on June 19, 1934, he grew up on a farm near Iberia, Ohio, raising and
showing Shropshire sheep. He graduated from Iberia High School in 1952 then
attended The Ohio State University, where he earned his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine
in 1958. That year, he married Anne Oakley and returned to Galion to practice with his
father Dr. Marvin Eugene Epperson, where he cared for generations of families and
their animals until retiring in 2000. He earned the trust of countless clients who knew
they could rely on him not only for his medical expertise but also for his kindness and
understanding during difficult times. In his working career he mentored numerous young
veterinarians who credit him with initiating their path to professional success.
Dr. Epperson was deeply involved in his community and was on many committees
relating to civic issues and events. He was an enthusiastic member of the North Central
Ohio Veterinary Medical Association. He served on the Crawford County Fair Board, the
Galion City School Board and on the Board of Directors of the First Federal Savings and
Loan (now First Federal Bank of Ohio). He took special interest in the Galion Hospital,
serving for a total of 40 years on the Board of Directors of the Galion Community
Hospital, and subsequently on the Board for Avita Health System. He was active in
philanthropy, supporting the Galion City Schools, the Galion First United Methodist Church (now the Christ Covenant Church), the OSU Mansfield campus, and the OSU
College of Veterinary Medicine. He served on the Boards of the Ralph E. Boyd
Foundation and the Avita Health Foundation.
Following retirement, Dr. Epperson enjoyed golfing, travelling, and cheering on the Ohio
State Buckeyes, and spending time with family in coastal North Carolina. He cherished
his family above all else and took great pride in the community that supported him
throughout his life.
Dr. Epperson is survived by his wife of 67 years, Anne Oakley Epperson; children Bill
(Lori), Lynn Tuggle (Berk), and Steve (Aurelia); brother Charles William (RuthAnn);
grandchildren Brandon Tuggle (Amanda), Erin Tuggle, Joshua Epperson (Emily),
Megan Epperson (Eric); great-grandchildren Lily and Jackson Tuggle; nephew Joe
Epperson and niece Susan Ferritto.
Snyder Funeral Home Richardson Davis Chapel is assisting the family with a memorial service to be held on November 28, 2025 at Galion Christ Covenant Church, with visitation beginning at noon
and funeral service at 2:00, with a lunch to follow. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that
donations be made to Avita Health Foundation in memory of Dr. Boyd Epperson.
Dr. Epperson’s legacy lives on through the countless lives he touched — both human
and animal. His compassion, dedication, and gentle spirit will be remembered by all who
had the privilege to know him.
Richardson Davis Chapel of Snyder Funeral Homes in Galion is honored to serve the family of Dr. Boyd Epperson, and condolences may be made to them at www.SnyderFuneralHomes.com.
Funeral Home: Snyder Funeral Home Richardson Davis Chapel
Website: snyderfuneralhomes.com