Merrilly Nicolazzi

Merrilly Nicolazzi, 76, of Buchanan, formerly Vernon Hills, IL, passed away peacefully at home on Wednesday, September 24, 2025.

Merrilly was bon on January 15, 1949, in Louisville, KY. She graduated from the University of Iowa in 1971 and went on to live in Vernon Hills, IL for 46 years.

Her professional career was one of dedication and impact. She served for 20 years as the Business Manager for Medical Economics and for 16 years as the Business Manager at Josselyn Center for Mental Health. Beyond her work, Merrilly dedicated time to her church and community. At First Presbyterian Church in Vernon Hills, she taught Sunday School for six years, facilitated the primary level of the Rainbows program for five years, and served as Deacon for three. She also supported the Lions Club and the Chicago Women's Presbytery, serving as secretary.

Following her retirement in 2016, Merrilly moved to Buchanan in 2017 to be closer to her daughter and grandchildren. She quickly became involved in her new community, serving three years as treasurer for the Niles Service League. When she wasn't volunteering, Merrilly could often be found cheering at the softball field, supporting her grandchildren. She also had a lifelong love of music and theater, attending performances as a season supporter of the Morris Performing Arts Center, and she enjoyed traveling and exploring new places.

Above all, Merrilly was a devoted mother and grandmother. She lived with a deep commitment to keeping her family close and was proud to fulfill her promise of getting her daughter a horse, even learning to hold the reins in the paddock, despite her hesitation around horses.

Merrilly is survived by her daughter, Cynthia (Steve) Lozmack of Galien; grandchildren, Emma, Sophia, Camille, Bergen all of Galien and brother, Robert P. (Jan) McBride of Oregon. She was preceded in death by her parents, Robert and Eudora (Schnebly) McBride; husband, David A. Nicolazzi and sister, Kathleen McBride.

A celebration of life memorial service will be held at 12 pm EST on Wednesday, October 1, 2025, at Swem Chapel, 301 W. Front St, Buchanan, MI. Family and friends may gather one hour prior to the service, from 11am to 12 pm EST also at the funeral home. Inurnment will take place at a later date in Ascension Catholic Cemetery and Mausoleum, Libertyville, IL.

Memorial contributions in Merrilly's honor may be made to the Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation. Those wishing to send a condolence online may do so at www.swemchapel.com.