Jill Ann Merrill 55, of Walker Meadows, Bellefonte, PA passed quietly to be with her Lord at her Group Home with caring staff by her bedside at 8:25 p.m. on July 18, 2012.

Born September 20, 1956 in Muncy, PA, she was the daughter of Sheila (Wolfe) Merrill and the late Joseph Merrill of State College.

Being one of God’s “Special Children” her life was very different than most. Jill spent a large portion of her life as a resident of Laurelton Center under the loving care of its staff. In 1998 when Laurelton Center closed she moved to her present residence in the ARC Group Home.

In addition to her mother she is survived by one brother, Scott E (Donna) Merrill of State College, and two sisters La’Na (Bob) Brown of McEwensville, PA and Kym (Chris) Turley of State College. Five nieces and nephews, Angie, JoeB, Jason, Shevonne, and Joe M as well as seven great nieces and nephews.

Along with her father she was preceded in death by her brother William, her maternal grandmother Margaret B. Snyder, of State College, her maternal grandfather Heber (Mary) Wolfe of Milton, PA, paternal grandparents Harry and Jennie Merrill of Muncy and a nephew, Justin Merrill of State College.

Visitation for family and friends will be from 1 to 2 p.m. on Sunday, July 22, 2012 at Koch Funeral Home, 2401 S. Atherton St., State College with a funeral service following at 2 p.m. at the funeral home with the Rev. Ronald Miller officiating.

Burial will be in Boalsburg Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers the family asks that memorial contributions be made in her name to either Trinity Lutheran Church, 2221 N. Oak Lane, State College, PA 16803 or Medi Home Health and Hospice, 341 Science Park Road, State College, PA 16803-2287.

Online condolences and signing of the guest book may be entered at www.kochfuneralhome.com.