Published on September 2, 2025 2:04 pm
Last Updated on September 2, 2025 2:04 pm
Merrill Dean Hadley, 90, of Herrick, Illinois, passed away peacefully on September 1, 2025, surrounded by the love of family.
Merrill was born on March 28, 1935, in Fayette County, the son of Ellis and Nellie (Robertson) Hadley. In 1954, Merrill married Shirley Ann Peifer, and together they built a life filled with joy and laughter until her passing in 2006.
Their union was blessed with two children, Kent Hadley and Connie Voudrie, both of Herrick. He was a doting grandfather to his granddaughters, Miranda (Chris) Pope and Brandi (Jason) Brummet, both of Herrick, and he reveled in the joys of being a great-grandfather to Brynlie and Hadley Pope, Beau and Byron Brummet, and Tayte, Hunter, and Hayden Voudrie. His love and guidance extended to his many nieces and nephews, who will forever hold dear the memories they shared.
Merrill’s professional life was marked by dedication and perseverance. He spent 37 years working at Caterpillar in Decatur, where he was respected for his reliability and expertise. Alongside his brother Bill, Merrill co-owned Hadley RV’s. An avid outdoorsman, Merrill found solace and joy in fishing, horseback riding, and riding motorcycles. His spirited nature was contagious, and he cherished the times spent visiting with friends and family. Many will fondly remember the camaraderie and laughter that filled the air at Shawnee cabin, where Merrill was a regular fixture. He was also known for his daily ritual, affectionately referred to as “quitting time,” when he would unwind with a cold one at the shop at 4:00 p.m., surrounded by his buddies. Merrill’s passing leaves a void in the hearts of those who knew him, but his legacy of love, hard work, and the importance of family will continue to live on.
He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Shirley, his granddaughter Krystal Voudrie, his brothers Bill and Darrell Hadley, his sister Lois Beck, and his son-in-law Wayne Voudrie. Despite these profound losses, Merrill’s spirit never wavered, and he remained a source of strength and inspiration to all.
Services will be held at 3:00 p.m. on Wednesday, September 3, 2025, at Lockart-Green Funeral Home in Cowden, with Pastor Nick Robertson officiating. Visitation will take place from 1:00 p.m. until the time of service. Burial will take place in Mound Cemetery. Family and friends are invited to light a candle or share a story at www.lockartgreenfuneralhome.com.