Laurel Merrick Willis jumped into the waiting arms of Jesus, Monday, Oct. 20, 2025.

Laurie was extremely devoted to the Lord. She spent hours each day studying the word and worshiping God. She taught children's Sunday school at the First Baptist Church in McIntosh for nearly 35 years.

She was loyal and devoted to her husband, Greg, her family, her friends, her church and the town of McIntosh, Florida.

Laurie loved hiking, traveling, camping, helping others and all church activities.

She graduated from Umatilla High in 1974, Lake Sumter Community College in 1977, and from UCF in 1980.

She was born on March 22, 1956 in Corning, NY, to Gerald W. Merrick and Phyllis C. Merrick.

She is predeceased by her parents and her step mother Martha Heim Merrick; brother, Gerald W. Merrick, Jr.; Sister, Lee Hart Merrick.

She is survived by her husband Gregory Willis of McIntosh, FL, Sisters: Polly Merrick Haines, Altoona, FL , Wanda Heim Page, Lake Weir, FL; Candy Heim (Jimmy) Mills, Bassville Park, FL; Pat Heim (Tom) Harrison, Brooksville, FL; brothers: Jimmy Heim, Hinesville, GA; George (Odette) Heim, Luxembourg; Walter "Pete" (Jan) Heim, Eustis, FL ; Bob Heim, East Liverpool, OH; sister-in-law Sandra Willis Lipgens, Traveler's Rest, S.C; many nephews, nieces, grand nephews and grand nieces, close friends, and UHS '74 graduates.

A Celebration of Life is scheduled to take place at the First Baptist Church of McIntosh, FL, January 3, 2026 at 10:30AM, casual dress. The ladies of the church plan to host lunch following the service.

Baldwin Brother's of Ocala assisted the family with arrangements.