James S Merry's Obituary
James S. Merry, 86, of Decatur Il. Passed away on April 14, 2024, at St. Mary’s Hospital. He was born September 2, 1937, to Robert and Agnes Merry in Kincaid, Il. He married Marilyn Smeltzer on April 12, 1957 in Taylorville, IL.
James retired in 1992, after 36 years of service with Caterpillar Tractor Company. He was a member of Holy Family Catholic Church for 57 years. He attended St. Teresa High School.
James was a loving family man. One of the things that really brought him joy was building with wood. A lot of the furnishings in his home were hand made by him. He loved camping and fishing with his family on Lake Shelbyville. He was an avid St. Louis Cardinals fan. He worked at the golf course and enjoyed being able to play often. He coached baseball and basketball with children in the Decatur community over the years. Most of all he loved spending time with his family and attending family functions and his grandchildren's sporting events.
James is survived by his wife of 67 years, Marilyn Merry; son, Kevin (Joan) Merry; grandchildren, Ashley (Dale) England, Lance Merry, Aaron (Kisha) Luy and Kyle (Dakota) Merry; great-grandchildren, Jolee, Ryker; Step- great grandchildren, Shaedon and Estin.
James was preceded in death by his parents; daughter, Jody Etnire and sister, Doris Beanblossom.
A visitation will be held for James at Holy Family Catholic Church on Wednesday April 24, 2024, from 11am to 12pm. Mass will be held at 12pm with burial to follow at Mt. Gilead cemetery in Decatur Il.
Memorials: Holy Family Catholic Church Church or St. Jude's Children's Hospital.
Condolences can be left for the family at www.gracelandfairlawn.com
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