Elaine Joyce “Joy” Merrill, age 95 passed away peacefully at her home in the early morning of Saturday, October 10, 2026.
She was born in Fairbury and raised in Belleville, Illinois and was the daughter of the late Velma (Hornsby) and Frank Bond. Joy graduated from Dupo High School, Dupo, IL in 1950.
Joy enjoyed traveling, word puzzles, reading and even more, shopping and going out to lunch. She was also a skilled seamstress. Bringing Joy the most happiness was having the title of wife and mother, and later one her newer titles as grandmother and great-grandmother. Having the family close by for dinner brought her absolute delight.
Her husband of 39 years, Donald Merrill passed away in 1997. Joy is survived by her loving children, H. Dean Cox of Clinton, LA, Debra Curry of Wilmington, DE, Douglas Merrill of Bear, DE and Barbara Curry of Denton, TX. She leaves behind a cherished legacy through her grandchildren, Jared Cox, Jennifer Lyons (Shawn) and Thomas Sadowski, as well as her great-grandchildren, Logan Cox, Colten Cox, and Chloe Elaine Lyons. Joy is also survived by multiple nieces and nephews and her loyal dog Abigail. She is also preceded in death by her siblings, Melvin “Sonny” Bond, Mavis Tate, Beverly Bond and Sharon Thierry.
Services and Burial will be held privately.
In lieu of flowers the family suggests donations be made to American Cancer Society, PO Box 669, New Castle, DE 19720 or online at cancer.org
For online condolences visit: www.mccreryandharra.com
