Ellen "Lynn" Ward Merrick

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of our cherished Ellen Lynn Ward Merrick. Ellen was born on September 1, 1952, in Holden, WV and went home to Jesus on January 25, 2025, at Lightways Hospice Center, surrounded by loved ones.

Lynn is survived by her loving husband of 46 years, Michael Merrick of Homer Glen, her twin sister Pamela Lee Roe, sister Connie Beth Fraley both of Elyria, OH and her beloved Cocker, Lucy. She is also survived by two stepdaughters, grandchildren and several nieces and nephews. Lynn was preceded in death by her parents Dorothy Ellen Ward and Jackson Ward.

Lynn graduated from Lorain High school, Lorain, Ohio and continued her education graduating from the University of Evansville, Evansville, Indiana in 1974. She began her teaching career at Mater Dei High School where she taught for ten years. Lynn came to Frankfort, IL from Evansville, IN in 1984 first working at Frankfort State Bank and soon after she began her 29 years at Lincoln-Way High Schools. She taught German and English at Lincoln-Way Central High School. She served as English Department Chair at Lincoln-Way East High School and became Associate Principal of Curriculum. When Lincoln-Way North opened, she continued there as Assistant Principal again focusing on Curriculum. She retired from Lincoln-Way North in 2013. Lynn was a member of St. Peter’s United Church of Christ and past President of Frankfort Kiwanis.

Lynn was a beloved colleague, teacher, mentor and friend to many. She loved to shop almost as much as she loved cats and dogs, especially her Cockers.

In keeping with her wishes, Lynn will be cremated, and a Celebration of Life will be held this Spring. In her memory, donations to Lightways Hospice Center, Joliet, IL, PAWS or TLC are greatly appreciated.