Marilyn (Enochs) Merrill

Marilyn (Enochs) Merrill, 84, passed away peacefully on August 4, 2026, surrounded by the people she loved. True to who she was, her final moments were filled with love, laughter, stories, and togetherness—the things that brought her the greatest joy throughout her life. Born on September 4, 1941, to Fred and Mary (Fowler) Enochs, Marilyn was a proud 1959 graduate of Toronto High School. She was, and always considered herself, a lifelong Toronto girl. Although she later moved to Columbus to be closer to her children and grandchildren after the passing of her beloved husband, Toronto never left her heart. She treasured her lifelong friendships and always dreamed of returning to the town she loved so dearly. Marilyn was preceded in death by the love of her life and husband of 41 years, John Merrill Sr.; her parents, Fred and Mary (Fowler) Enochs Stephens; her brothers, George Enochs (Suzanne) and Chuck Enochs (Ruth); and her dear daughter-in-law, Toni Bonitatibus Merrill. She is survived by her son, John Merrill Jr.; her daughter, Yvonne (John) Bonitatibus; her grandchildren, Ryan (Britney) Merrill, Rachel (partner Jenn) Merrill, and Anna (fiancé Jack) Bonitatibus; her beloved niece, Melanie (Vince) Dragoun, whom she lovingly called her “first baby”; her nephew, Fred (Jen) Enochs; her newest joy, her precious great-granddaughter, Emma, affectionately known as “Itty Bitty Em”; as well as many cherished cousins and lifelong friends. Marilyn spent many years with Quattrone Insurance Company in Steubenville. She always thought of the Quattrone family not as her employer, but as family, and she cherished them throughout her life. She was an active member of Bell Chapel United Methodist Church before relocating to Columbus. A proud Girl Scout leader, dedicated Boy Scout volunteer, and familiar face at countless school activities, Marilyn generously gave her time to others. She volunteered at school, rarely missed an event for her children or grandchildren, and many of her children’s friends affectionately referred to her as “Mom.” Marilyn never met a stranger. She could strike up a conversation with anyone, anywhere, and often did. Even after “retiring,” she enjoyed working at Costco, where she probably spent as much time visiting with people as she did handing out samples—and she wouldn’t have had it any other way. Marilyn was strong, fiercely loyal, feisty, ornery, stubborn, and unapologetically herself. She was completely unfiltered and never hesitated to tell you exactly what was on her mind. Sometimes you loved it... and sometimes maybe you didn’t. But that’s what made Marilyn, Marilyn. She was truly one of a kind, and everyone who knew and loved her has a story to tell. While our hearts are broken, we find comfort knowing Marilyn is once again with the absolute love of her life. We have no doubt she was greeted with the biggest, best John Merrill Sr. bear hug imaginable. A memorial service celebrating Marilyn’s life will be held at a later date at the Clarke Funeral Home, Toronto. In the meantime, the family asks that you honor Marilyn in the way she would have loved most: raise a glass, share a story, make someone laugh, and spend time with the people you love.