Carol Ann Merrill

Carol A. Merrill, formerly of Springfield, died at 6:09 p.m. Tuesday, June 7, 2016, in Bloomington in the presence of family, a brother in Christ, and the Lord. She was born March 27, 1953, in Springfield to Robert LaVerne Merrill and Ollie Jane (Moss) Merrill. She was preceded in death by both her parents and one great-nephew Tyler.

Surviving are one sister Lisa Bethea of Bloomington; one brother David (Jean) Merrill of Maryville, MO; five nieces Danielle (Brian) Lawson, Sarah (Nick) Weber, Carly Bethea, Hannah Bethea, and Debrielle Merrill; six nephews David (Jennifer) Merrill, DJ (Alisha) Merrill, Derek (Natalie) Merrill, Dakota(Jessica) Merrill , Dannen Merrill, and Tim Bethea; five great-nieces Delaney, Michaela, Paige, Ellianah , and Abigail; four great-nephews Drake, Landen, Chase, and William; and several cousins.

Carol was a resident of Springfield most of her life. She was a 1971 graduate of Springfield Southeast High School and a 1976 graduate of Southern Illinois University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Early Childhood Education. Carol worked at Lincoln Land Community College child care center and later for the State of Illinois, retiring in 2013.

Carol was a loving daughter, sister, aunt, niece, cousin, and friend. She loved Jesus and loved sharing this with others. Her generosity touched many- those she knew and those she did not. Through the years she taught Sunday school, sponsored children through World Vision and contributed to the ministries of WLUJ and Tony Evans. She enjoyed spending time with her family and listening Christian radio programs. Carol was dearly loved and will be greatly missed.

A private graveside service, officiated by Scott Boerckel, and burial were held on June 14, 2016, at Oak Ridge Cemetery. A memorial service will be held at a later date.

Memorial contributions may be made to WLUJ or Tony Evans Ministries.