Judith Marie Merrill

Judith Marie Merrill, affectionately known to family and friends as Judy, passed away on September 17, 2026, leaving behind a lifetime filled with family, friendship, adventure, laughter, and love.

Born January 2, 1935, in Springfield, Illinois, Judy was a woman who embraced life with enthusiasm and an unmistakable sense of joy. She was ambitious, generous, positive, and fun-loving—and she was always ready for a party. But above all else, Judy loved her family. They were at the heart of her life and the source of many of her happiest memories.

Judy began her adult life as a devoted homemaker, raising her children and caring for her family. When her children began school, she embarked on a new chapter and built an impressive career in advertising. She became an account executive for two local radio stations before later becoming the publisher of Builders Architect Magazine in Central Illinois. Her professional life reflected the same qualities she brought to everything she did: determination, confidence, creativity, and an ability to connect with people.

Outside of work, Judy knew how to enjoy life. She loved playing bridge, swimming, gardening, traveling the world, and, of course, cheering on her beloved St. Louis Cardinals. Her love of the Cardinals led to one particularly memorable moment: Judy had the honor of throwing out the first pitch at a Cardinals ballgame, a special experience that perfectly captured her enthusiasm for the game and her zest for life.

Judy had a particular gift for bringing people together and loved nothing more than throwing a party. For Judy, entertaining wasn't simply about an occasion—it was about creating memories with the people she loved.

Her beloved dog, Cuddles, held a very special place in her heart and was a cherished companion in her life.

Judy was also deeply committed to her community. She was a member of St. Agnes Catholic Church and generously volunteered her time in support of Sparc, a breast cancer charity. Her willingness to give her time and energy to others reflected the generosity that was such an important part of who she was.

Judy was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Frederick Merrill; her children, Michael Lord of Springfield, Illinois, and Brian Lord of St. Louis, Missouri; her sister and brother-in-law, Joann and Floyd Dean; and her brother and sister-in-law, Jim and Donna Furlich.

She leaves behind her daughter, Melinda Hall and her spouse, David Hill, and her son, Brent Lord and his spouse, Kim Solomon, as well as a loving family that carries her legacy forward: nine grandsons, one granddaughter, four great-grandsons, one great-granddaughter, and another great-grandchild on the way.

For those who knew Judy, her absence will be deeply felt. There will be fewer bridge games, fewer Cardinals games to cheer through together, fewer gatherings where she could bring everyone around the same table. Yet the greatest tribute to Judy may be found in the life she lived—full of people, places, experiences, laughter, and love.

She traveled the world, built a career, tended gardens, cheered for her team, opened her home to others, cared deeply for her family, and loved her Cuddles. She lived with optimism and purpose, and she had a wonderful ability to make life feel like something to be celebrated.

Judy leaves her family not only with memories, but with an example: to stay positive, love generously, gather the people who matter, and never miss an opportunity to enjoy life.

Her family and friends will remember her with love, laughter, and gratitude—and perhaps with a little friendly competition over a hand of bridge or while watching the Cardinals.

Judy lived a life worth celebrating, and she will be deeply missed.