Donald Odell Merriman

Donald Merriman passed away Saturday, November 8, 2025 at the age of 90. He went peacefully inside his longtime country estate with his family by his side. Don was born March 19th, 1935, in Johnson County IL, the son of Jeff and Bertha (Anderson) Merriman. He grew up on the family farm in the Cache bottoms with his trusty companion Rosco, the "hunting dog". They would venture into the countryside in search of the most exclusive ponds, prominently Bozwell's fishing hole. On October 29th, 1960, Don married the love of his life Betty L. Tripp. He is survived by his loving wife of 65 years, Betty L. Merriman; two children, son, Randall (Connie) Merriman and daughter, Tonya Merriman; grandchildren, Celisha (Jeff) Boner, Crista Merriman, Kacey (Todd) Hanson, Jordan Duty and significant other, Leighton Robbins; great-grandchildren, Everly Boner, Lane Boner, Lyndyn Heuring, Soryn Heuring, Brynnleigh Robbins, Brylee Robbins and a great-grandchild, (Boy) on the way. Don leaves behind many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Jeff and Bertha Merriman, brothers, Robert (Bob) Merriman, Leon Merriman, sisters, Lawanda Sadler and Logreta Hinkle and granddaughter, Elizabeth Annette Merriman. Don was a faith-filled member of the Apostolic Faith Tabernacle in Jonesboro and remained such until his passing. He committed unconditionally to his church with love and faith and was always offering and welcoming a hearty handshake. Don, throughout his professional career, was a hardworking man. He worked for the International Shoe Company, Sunbeam Bread, and Bunny Bread. After retirement, Don made sure to keep in touch by spending quality time with his fellow co-workers discussing "Goings On" over a cup of coffee. Busy work was easy for Don as he offered Car Detailing services to the community at discount prices. His absolute passion was his lawn. He spent hours upon hours keeping his property looking immaculate and now his son Randy carries on this tradition. Don, though never idle, was a simple outdoorsman. He was very detail oriented, having each day planned out to the letter. He would spend mornings and evenings in his Gazebo, admiring the sounds of nature along with the beauty of the wildlife surrounding him. Don shared mutual past times with both of his children. Year after year, season permitting, he and his son enjoyed hunting and trapping together thusly becoming their bond. He and his daughter, however, took part in the equestrian adventures. Don would get such a kick out of feeding carrots to "Tennessee" and slinging hay. He cherished these times as they were defining moments never to be forgotten. Funeral services for Donald Merriman will be held at 1:00 pm Friday, November 14, 2025 at the Apostolic Faith Tabernacle in Jonesboro, IL with Brother Mark Goins officiating. Visitation will be from 11:00am until the service time at 1:00pm. Interment will follow at Ebenezer Hall Cemetery. Rendleman and Hileman Funeral Home in Anna is in charge of arrangements. Memorial contributions can be made to the Apostolic Faith Tabernacle Church. Envelopes will be available at the church and at Rendleman and Hileman Funeral Home.