Ms. Merrilyn Jeanne (O’Donnell) Johnson of Metamora, Illinois, formerly of Abingdon, Illinois, passed away 4:58 p.m. on Monday, January 25, 2021, after a long battle with Lewy Body Dementia. She was the ultimate ‘daddy’s girl’, born in Galesburg, Illinois on October 18, 1946, the daughter of John W. and Shirley W. (White) O’Donnell.
Surviving are her children Shawn Scalf of Metamora, Illinois, Frank (Susan) Johnson of Washington, Illinois, Brian (Jennifer) Johnson of Lee’s Summit, Missouri, and Amanda (Eric) Gavin of Metamora, Illinois; stepson, Ross (Tina) Johnson of Moline, Iowa; brothers Donald (Aleta) O’Donnell of Abingdon, Illinois and Dennis (Patricia) O’Donnell of Grand Forks, North Dakota; a sister, Mary Jo O’Donnell; 15 grandchildren, Tyler (Mariana) Johnson, Allison Morris, Jason Johnson, Kiersten (Kyle) Messenger, Emma (Jordan) Rodier, Paige Johnson, Rachael Scalf, Hannah Gavin, John Scalf, Sarah Scalf, Jacob Gavin, David Gavin, Christopher Johnson, James Johnson, and Abigail Gavin. She was preceded in death by her parents, twin sons, Paul and David Scalf, and a brother, Thomas O’Donnell.
Merrilyn graduated Abingdon High School in 1964 and went on to graduate top of her class from the Burlington Beauty Academy. She enjoyed her early career as a stylist; one of her greatest pleasures was giving her children and grandchildren their first haircuts. She also worked at the Department of Children and Family Services, advocating for the rights of children in need and wishing she could care for them all.
Merrilyn went on to have a long and successful 33-year career with Walmart, where her story is the all-American story. She was one of the first employees hired at the Galesburg Walmart and worked her way up from cashier to store planning manager in their corporate division. During her career, she touched the lives of many and made lifelong friendships. Her journey led her to travel to amazing places and come home with stories of adventure, food and culture. She was also an active philanthropist for the Children’s Miracle Network, where she famously dressed up as the colorful Dotty the Clown, with her sidekick Harry, the talking monkey and helped raise thousands of dollars on their behalf.
Merrilyn leaves a legacy of love, friendship and passion for everyone she encountered, especially for her family. She was known to stay up through the night to listen to a friend in need, give her counsel when requested and love unconditionally. She loved life and filled it with laughter. She loved her family fearlessly, devoting time and energy to each one. She enjoyed cooking and big family dinners. Merrilyn cherished each of her lifelong friendships. Her family is so proud of her and all she stood for in her life.
Visitation will be from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. on Friday, January 29th at Hinchliff-Pearson-West Funeral Directors and Cremation Service Abingdon Chapel, with a funeral service to follow. Cremation will follow the services. A private burial will be held later in St. Augustine Catholic Cemetery at the family memorial.
Memorials may be made to OSF Children’s Hospital of Illinois; Merrilyn was especially thankful for the lifesaving care they provided for two sets of her premature twin grandsons. Online condolences may be made at www.h-p-w.com.
