Marsha Merritt, 72, of Centralia passed away Wednesday, May 7, 2025, at SSM Health St. Mary’s Hospital in Centralia. She was born on July 23, 1952, in Centralia, the daughter of Warren and Jessie (Orrill) Peoples. She married Bob Redman, and they later divorced. She married Phil Rogers, and they divorced. She married John David Merritt on June 26, 1993, and he preceded her in death on July 27, 2015.
Survivors include her beloved family, her daughter, Bobbi Jo Goodin and husband Terry of Centralia; sons, Robert Redman and special friend Larissa Wuebbels of Germantown, Rickey Redman and wife Brenda of Parker, CO, Ben Rogers and wife Katie of Highland, Brad Rogers of Anchorage, AK, Wade Merritt of Centralia, Will Merritt Centralia; honorary daughter, Ashley Daniels, and Cassie Glenn and Jared; eighteen grandchildren; and twelve great-grandchild; brothers, Gary Peoples and Julie of Centralia, Randy Peoples and Gayla of Walnut Hill; sisters, Carole Wright of Centralia, Judy Laffoon and husband Jim of Odin, and Tammy Neu of Centralia; and several nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.
Along with her husband, Marsha was preceded in death by her parents; her sister, Brenda Lance; nephews, Shawn Bedgood, Grant Hodge; niece, Mandi DeBernardi; several aunts and uncles; special aunt, Granny Grace; and son, Michael Merritt.
Marsha had a kind, compassionate heart, championed the underdog, and provided care that always met others’ needs. Her gift of helping others led her to be an important part of the Murray Parents’ Association, where she offered her assistance in any way needed. Marsha was an amazing poet, writing many heartfelt and sometimes funny poems to share with family and friends. She would never miss her 4 p.m. coffee talks with her neighbors, grateful for having these close friends to share life with. Marsha will be most remembered for the fierce love she had for her children and grandchildren. She was each one’s biggest cheerleader, offering encouragement, a listening ear, and love through all of life’s situations. Marsha was a lovely lady who will be deeply missed, and memories of her will be forever cherished.
A celebration of life service will be held privately at a later date. Memorials may be made in Marsha’s honor to the Murray Center Parents Association and will be accepted for her family at the Irvin Macz Funeral Home, 234 South Elm Street, Centralia, IL 62801. Online condolences and memories of Marsha may be shared with her family by visiting maczfuneralhomes.com and/or on the funeral home’s Facebook page.
