Shirley Merriam

     Shirley Jean Merriam 79,  of Columbia, SC and formerly of Adel, Iowa; Chillicothe, Ill; and Ocala, FL, passed away on Friday, July 23, 2010.

     Shirley was born August 30, 1930, in Mason City, Iowa. She was the daughter of Ruth and Earl Sweet.  On September 3, 1950, she married George Roland Merriam in Mason City, Iowa.

     She was instrumental in the success of her husband’s business, Chillicothe State Bank.  Shirley was an avid golfer, bridge player, an excellent seamstress, as well as active in Eastern Star.

     In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, George Roland Merriam, and a granddaughter, McKenzie Bene’ Merriam.

     She is survived by her daughter, Bene’ (Norman) Jacobs of Columbia, SC; son, Gary Merriam of Jacksonville, FL; grandchildren, Angie (Charles) Fellers, Nicholas Merriam, Amanda (John) Loveday and Ryan Alpert.

     Graveside services for Mrs. Shirley Jean Merriam will be celebrated on Sunday, July 25, 2010, at 2:00 p.m. at the Chillicothe City Cemetery, with the Rev. Steven J. Mall officiating. There will be no visitation. Clary Funeral Home, 428 W. McClure Ave., in Peoria is in charge of arrangements.