Joan Mary Merrill, 75, of Plattsburgh, passed away peacefully, surrounded by her loved ones on Monday, February 16, 2026 at UVM Medical Center in Burlington.

She was born on September 28, 1950, the daughter of Henry and Rita (Broderick) Gonyea.

Joan grew up on Chateaugay Lake and graduated from Ellenburg Central School in 1968.  She attended Champlain Valley Nursing school and was a graduate of Our Lady of Victory Secretarial School. She married Ronald Merrill and celebrated 54 years of marriage with him.

Joan enjoyed reading and writing. She was very artistic, loved gardening and was a great cook.

Survivors include her loving husband, Ronald Merrill; daughters Tricia Peerman (Larry) and Michele Merrill; grandchildren, Dillon Peerman, Katelyn Peerman and Jessica Merrill; sister, Margaret Talford (Fred); as well as several cousins.

She was predeceased by her parents.

Calling hours will be held from 4:00 to 6:00pm on Thursday, February 19, 2026 at the R.W. Walker Funeral Home in Plattsburgh. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:00am on Friday, February 20, 2026 at St. John's Church in Plattsburgh. Burial will be at a later date.

Donations in memory of Joan may be made to St. Jude.

To share a memory or condolence with the family, please visit rwwalkerfh.com.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the R.W. Walker Funeral Home and Cremation Service, 69 Court Street, Plattsburgh, NY.