Grace Evelyn (Barnard) Merrill, 81, of Keystone, slipped into the arms of her Savior Sunday morning, October 4, 2020, at Ossian Health and Rehabilitation Center.
Grace was born November 15, 1938 in La Paz, Bolivia, South America, to Reverend William S. Barnard and Lillian N. (Nahrwold) Barnard. She spent her formative years as a minister’s daughter, both in Bolivia and Indiana. She was a 1956 graduate of South Side High School in Ft. Wayne, and also graduated from Union Bible Seminary in Westfield, where she met her husband.
On August 23, 1963, in Phlox, IN, she was united in marriage to Reverend Joseph S. Merrill. Joe and Grace spent 57 years together, serving the Lord wherever He called them. They spent many years as missionaries to Bolivia, as well as serving in churches and Christian schools throughout Indiana, Ohio, and Florida. Grace was always content to work alongside her husband, no matter where they found themselves. She was a homemaker, and also held employment as a cook, bookkeeper, and teacher.
Grace was an accomplished pianist and loved music of all kinds, especially enjoying gospel music. She was an avid reader and enjoyed playing games with her family. She loved bright colors – and her sweet smile was a bright spot in the lives of those who knew her. She was a good listener, greatly valued the presence of her family around her, and prayed for them faithfully. He endearing giggle will be sorely missed.
She is survived by her husband, Joe Merrill of Keystone; children, Tim (Nikki) Merrill of Economy, Sharon Braun of Keystone, Debbie Schwartz of Berne, and Dan Merrill of Keystone; son-in-law: Harry Caylor of Ridgeville; grandchildren, Dawn Caylor, Damon Caylor, Jessica Braun, Jordan (Faith) Braun, Daphne Landers, and Amanda (Phillip) Martz; brother, Dave (Vickie) Barnard of Berne; sister-in-law, Liz Nielander of Kokomo; 3 great-grandchildren; and a great many nieces, nephews, and cousins.
She was preceded in death by her parents; brother, Robert Barnard; daughter, Martha Caylor; and a granddaughter, Angela Schwartz.
Services will be 5:30 p.m. Monday, October 12, 2020 at Faith Community Church, 9560 W. 200 S., Dunkirk, IN 47336.
Visiting hours are Monday from 2 until 5 p.m. at the church.
Memorials may be sent to The Gideons International.
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