Mary E Merritt

Towanda – Mary Merritt, 91, of Towanda, passed away on Wednesday, January 10, 2024, at Carle BroMenn Medical Center in Normal, surrounded by her family. Funeral will be 11 am Friday at First Baptist Church of Towanda, with Reverend Jack Moody Officiating. A Celebration of Life Luncheon will follow at the Towanda Community Building, and will be open to the Public. A private interment will be held at a later date. Mary Cultra was born on December 17, 1932, in Ashton, Illinois, the son of Sam Cultra and Elma (Allsup) Cultra. She was united in marriage with Lyle Gene Merritt on December 5, 1954, in Towanda. Other survivors include her children: Jeff Merritt, Bloomington, Dennis Merritt (Austin, TX), Ron (Karen) Merritt, Downs, and Rodney Merritt, Bloomington; Four grandchildren: Keri Merritt, Maddie Merritt, Hunter Merritt, and Cory Merritt, and two Great Grandchildren Opal and Jeffrey Leazanby. She was preceded in death by her parents, one daughter Lisa; two brothers: Bill and Don, and two sisters Ella and Judy. Her sisters Carol Link and Lynne Arensdorf survive. Mary attended Ashton High School, and then enrolled at Illinois State Normal University where she Earned a bachelor’s in education. She then taught at Lexington Elementary School and was a substitute Teacher at Towanda Elementary for many years up until her retirement. Mary and Lyle were lifelong members of the Towanda Baptist Church. Mary also was a member of the Towanda American Legion Post 56 Auxiliary, and Towanda Library Board. She served as an election judge in Towanda for many years, and was an avid supporter of Community Events, including the 4th of July Committee and Towanda Scouting. Her hobbies included Cooking, Gardening, Sewing, Crafts, and Reading. Mary loved attending her Grandkids sporting events and doting on her Great grandchildren. Mary was a very kind soul, touched the lives of many people, and will be dearly missed by her family and loyal companion Bailey, and those who knew her.

Memorials can be made to the Towanda Baptist Church, 205 West Monroe, Towanda, IL 61776.