Mrs. Luella H. Merry of St. Cloud, FL, born on March 13, 1941, went to her eternal reward on July 4, 2026, celebrating her Independence Day in Christ. Born to Bernice and Elmer of Liberty, IL, married to Wendell Merry of Champaign, IL (IBEW 601) in 1963 not quite on Christmas Day because the preacher said no and widowed after 49 years. Luella or as most knew her, Lu, was the mother of Robin & Laura. She poured her whole life into making their lives loved and blessed richly. Known for her quiet, patient spirit by all who knew her, but also for her perseverance and grace through life's troubles. Lover of Jesus, Faithful servant and daughter of the King of kings. Her faith forged from infancy at the feet of her grandparents, Lu often remembering her childhood enriched by her fellowship of the Saints and sitting around a table of hospitality at the family farm.

Lu and Wendell Merry made hospitality a bedrock of their lives, inviting any and all to dine. Many could boast, having shared their table in the Urbana home they built, with their own two hands. Not just meals, but lives invited in. A true lesson in Godly hospitality.

Lu was truly someone with a pioneer spirit. She learned and developed many skills including sewing, gardening, traveling, and cake decorating. All skills she used to serve others. Raising her family and serving the local Webber Street Christian Church for many many years. Later serving others at First Christian Church of Champagne and CU Church and most recently Thrive Church Lake Nona Orlando, FL. Till her final days she encouraged serving the Lord even volunteering her daughter Laura without asking first.

Surviving family include her beloved daughter, Laura Merry, St. Cloud, FL. Aunt, Ruby, Sister-in-Law, Carol, Nephews, Ron, Jim and Jon. Niece Kathy & Janet and several great nieces and nephews.

Lu loved the local church and would encourage all to give donations in her memory To Thrive Church Lake Nona, Orlando, FL. www.tc.life

Funeral service will be at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, July 18, 2026 at Renner-Wikoff Chapel, 1900 Philo Road, Urbana, IL61802. Hank Sanford will be officiating. Visitation at 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. at the funeral home. Burial at Grandview Memorial Park. Condolences may be made at www.renner-wikoffchapel.com