William Merrick
William J. “Joe” Merrick, 78, of Springfield, IL, passed away on Sunday, July 20, 2025, at his home. He was born on June 16, 1947, in Springfield, IL to Stanley A. and Mary (Pritchard) Merrick, and they preceded him in death.
Joe is also preceded in death by his son, William Joseph Merrick Jr.; and three brothers, Stanley A. Jr., Jerry, and Rex Merrick.
He is survived by his children, Nannette Merrick of Springfield, Tammy (Arthur) Merrick of Springfield, Larissa (Terrence) Tweed of Bloomington, David (Kaitlyn) Merrick of Atlanta, IL, Steven Merrick of Springfield and Ashley (John) Olmstead of Springfield; five grandchildren, Kabrea Thomas, Brooklyn Thomas, Alaycia Hickman, Akaylee Thomas, and Joseph Tweed; one great-grandson, Joshua Merrick; sister, Sharon (Jack) Vinson of Springfield; sisters-in-law, Suzanna Merrick and Anna Merrick; and several nieces and nephews.
Joe graduated from Feitshans High School, where he was an all-star basketball player. He continued his studies at Lincoln Land Community College, before being drafted to the United States Marine Corps serving in Vietnam.
After his service, he worked at Allis-Chalmers for several years. He then found a state job and retired from the State of Illinois – Department of Disability Determination Service as an office assistant.
Joe attended St. John’s Lutheran Church. He was a member of VFW 755 and quite the sports fanatic, watching the St. Louis Cardinals and the Fighting Illini any chance he could. Joe also was a huge lover of dogs.
Memorial Gathering: 10:00 – 11:00 am, Tuesday, July 29, 2025 at St. John’s Lutheran Church.
Memorial Service: 11:15 am, Tuesday, July 29, 2025 at St. John’s Lutheran Church with Pastor Linda Strader officiating. Burial will follow at Camp Butler National Cemetery where military honors will be conducted.
Memorial contributions may be made to St. John’s Lutheran Church or the Land of Lincoln Honor Flight.
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