If the box 'Total Distribution' is marked on the 1099-R, then RMD does not apply and you could answer No.
If not, and you are continuing to receive monthly payments for sale of stock from Merrill Lynch, and your father was over 70-1/2 when he died, you can answer Yes.
Here's more info about RMD:
https://ttlc.intuit.com/replies/3302117