Raymond Lee “Ray”  Merrill age 78 of  Havana, IL formerly of Bloomington, IL

passed away peacefully  at 7:54 AM on Tuesday, March 27, 2018 surrounded by his family at the home of his daughter in Bloomington, IL. His funeral service will be 12 Noon Friday, March 30, 2018 at Beck Memorial Home, Bloomington, IL. Pastor Brian Lesemann will be officiating. Visitation will be 10:00 AM-12:00 Noon Friday at Beck Memorial Home, Bloomington, IL. The family suggests memorials be made to American Cancer Society or the American Heart Association.

Ray was born July 27, 1939 in Bloomington, IL the son of Ray and Bonnie French Merrill. He married Frances Kathryn “Kathy” Charles on  Feb. 14, 1993 in Covell, IL. She survives.

Also surviving are his 4 children, Cindy Brown, Bloomington IL, Timothy Merrill, Bloomington, IL, Tammy (Mike) Brewer, Bloomington, IL, Dawn Miles, Normal, IL, 8 grandchildren,

12 great-grandchildren, 1 great great-grandson,  2 brothers, Vernon (Sharon) Merrill, Heyworth, IL, Bob Merrill, Bloomington, IL and his twin sister, Vie (Ron) Hamilton, Bloomington, IL.

Ray is preceded in death by his parents and 1 son, Ray Merrill.

 Ray had retired from the Local #99 Plumbers & Pipefitters Union. He enjoyed fishing and spending time with his family. Please view the obituary and share your condolences and memories online at www.beckmemorial.com