06/28/2024
Our state lost a very VERY big part of our heart on Monday. Heather was ALWAYS available for our Vaulters and horses. She would host shows that we have attended, help coach or just cheer on our Vaulters. We are completely devastated and please help keep her legacy alive and donate, be kind and love each other. 🥰
Every day is a special day, filled with extraordinary surprises and special moments. Prancing Horse loves sharing its stories; however, today was different for us. We received the sad news that one of our amazing supporters – Heather Merrell - unexpectedly passed on Monday. Heather leaves behind her loving husband, two young boys, and a cherished sister. She created a legacy of compassion and grace, her passion was helping others, and it brought her tremendous joy.
Heather was an incredible supporter of Prancing Horse and did so in a special way. A lifelong horsewoman, she identified horses that she felt would be well suited for our therapeutic horsemanship program … and her instincts were always spot on. One of the first horses she sent our way was Toby, a beautiful chestnut gelding found abandoned on the side of the road which Heather quickly took ownership of. Toby was with Prancing Horse for several years, helping our therapeutic horsemanship clients and veterans find their way. Heather truly understood our needs and enlisted her sister, India, to help with her quest for the perfect unicorn. India brought to us two very special horses, Sully and Fergie, long favorites at our farm and who have since retired.
Our 2023 Horse of the Year, Stuart, was also brought to us by Heather. Stuart changed the lives of so many of our clients and was committed to us heart and soul. He was the perennial favorite and set the standard for other members of his herd to live up to. We cannot thank Heather enough for introducing us to this special, one-eyed Haflinger who left an indelible impression on the lives of everyone he crossed paths with. We truly believe that there was a little bit of Heather in each horse she sent our way as evidenced by the dedication, care, and commitment they exhibited.
In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that donations be made in Heather’s name to Prancing Horse. You may do so at https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=S3Q4SQ2X65QLN or by mail to P.O. Box 327, Southern Pines, NC 28388.
We ask that you keep Heather's family in your prayers during this difficult time.
Heather Merrell Obituary - Tryon, NC | McFarland Funeral Chapel
