Merrill George Wright

Merrill George Wright, 86, of Henry, IL passed away on Saturday, May 16, 2026 at Accolade Healthcare of Peoria in Peoria, IL.

Merrill Wright was born on April 21, 1940, in Peoria, the son of Ernest and Mildred (Hall) Wright. He graduated from Henry-Senachwine High School in 1958. On November 29, 1957, Merrill married Eleanor “Kay” Moore at Henry Methodist Church. She preceded him in death on December 7, 2014.

Merrill was a lifelong farmer and also worked in construction before beginning a career as a Chemical Operator for BF Goodrich, where he worked for more than 20 years before retiring in 2000.

Merrill had a deep passion for history, especially the history of Marshall County. He especially enjoyed studying plat books and learning about the families and farmland that shaped the community through the years. He also had a love for antique John Deere and Oliver tractors, and enjoyed sharing stories and memories connected to them.

He is survived by his two sons, John (Lynne) Wright and Daniel (Michele) Wright; four grandchildren, Miranda (Jake) Hofer, Jacob Wright, Bailey (Colton) Houghtby and Jessica Wright; one great grandchild on the way; one brother, Bruce (Audrey) Wright and two nephews, Mike and Tom Wright.

Merrill was preceded in death by his parents, wife and two sons, Joseph Dean Wright and Ronald Eugene Wright.

A private celebration of life will be held at a later date. Burial of Cremated Remains will be in Mound Cemetery. Cremation Rites have been accorded.

Memorials may be directed to Marshall County Historical Society or Mound Cemetery.