Sandra Kay Merritt

Sandra Kay Merritt, 81, of Carthage, passed away at 5:40 AM, on January 9, 2026 at The Elms in Macomb, Illinois.

She was born January 26, 1944, in Keokuk, Iowa, the daughter of Carl and Mary (Reagin-Briley) Geissler. Sandra graduated from Carthage High School in 1962. She was a member of Ferris Christian Church where she was united in marriage to Donald L. Merritt on May 13, 1962. They were married for 22 years.

Sandra was a devoted mother and homemaker. She worked for a time at Royalty’s Clothing Store, Methode Electronics, and Ben Franklin in Carthage. She enjoyed cooking, baking, gardening, canning, and sewing clothes for her family. Sandra had a natural talent for decorating and enjoyed making a variety of arts and crafts including ceramics, flower arrangements, wreaths, and her favorite craft, cross stitch. Above all, she enjoyed spending time with her children and grandchildren.

Sandra is survived by three children, Kimberley (Kevin) Enzeroth of Carthage, Matthew (Michelle) Merritt of Carthage, and Jonathan (Tonya) Merritt of Carthage.

Ten grandchildren, Ricky Hanks, Jordan (Brooke) Merritt, Morgan (Aric) Cremer, Ryan (Gera Gooding) Bolen, Madison (Nick) Severs, Jackson (Mia Freyermuth) Merritt, Allena (Taylor Shouse) Merritt, Mickaela Enzeroth, McKenna (Austin Cornwell) Merritt, and Mylee Merritt. Thirteen great grandchildren, Trenton, Cora, Johnnie, Kyndle, and Greydon Hanks. Thomas, Baker, and Millie Merritt. River and Dutton Cremer. Ryle, Rowdy, and Rory Severs. Siblings, Rex Geissler of Castle Rock, Colorado, and Doreen (Geissler) Books of Petersburg, Illinois.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Carl and Marion Geissler, and Mary and Don Hartweg. Three brothers, Ronald Geissler, James Geissler, and Gary Geissler, and her daughter, Robin Merritt Brady.

The family is sincerely grateful to the many individuals who provided prayers, love, care, and support for Sandra and her family during her journey to be united with her Lord and Savior.

Sandra will be lovingly remembered at a private celebration of her life. Printy Funeral Home in Carthage is in charge of arrangements. Memorials may be sent to Parkinson’s Foundation 5757 Waterford District Drive, Ste 310, Miami, FL 33126 in memory of Sandra.