In a quiet home in Philomath, Oregon, the life of Merry Gay Rath, a 53-year-old White/Caucasian woman, came to a tragic end on March 7, 2021. Known for her bright, welcoming smile, Merry was a beloved member of the community and a long-time hair stylist at Northwest Hairlines, where she had worked for 30 years. She was also an active member of the Living Faith Community Church. Friends and family remember her for her love of music, movies, and cooking.
The tragic events unfolded on a Sunday morning when police received a hang-up 911 call from the Rath residence. Responding officers arrived within minutes, but no one answered the door. After forcing entry into the home, they discovered the bodies of Merry and her 55-year-old husband, Carl Anthony Rath. Both had sustained fatal gunshot wounds.
An extensive investigation involving the Philomath Police Department, the Benton County Sheriff's Office, and the Oregon State Police ensued. After several weeks, authorities released their findings, concluding that the incident was a murder-suicide. The investigation determined that Carl Anthony Rath had shot his wife multiple times before turning the gun on himself. He had reportedly sent several text messages to relatives and acquaintances informing them of his actions before taking his own life.
As the perpetrator was also deceased, no arrests were made in connection with Merry Gay Rath's death. The case was considered closed, with the incident being an isolated domestic tragedy. The community mourned the loss of Merry, a woman remembered for her positive and upbeat outlook on life. She was survived by her two adult children, a daughter and a son.
