Merilyn Maxine Hancock Obituary
Merilyn Maxine Hancock of Jonesboro, Arkansas, passed away at her home on January 17, 2023. She was born on June 23, 1947, in Jacksonville, Illinois, to Fred Heinige and Jeanette (Smith) Heinige. She graduated from Winchester High School of Winchester, Illinois, in 1965 and completed courses from the Art Institute of America. On December 3, 1966, she married John G. Hancock. Merilyn was a long-time member of the congregation of Jehovah's Witnesses, being baptized as such on August 23, 1961.
Along with her husband of 56 years, Merilyn is survived by her children: Sabrina Himschoot (Todd), Adrian Hancock (Lisa), Sonja Pepper (David), Sacha Wilson (Robert), Tabitha Lomax (Nathan), and Heather Buckholtz (Scott); grandchildren: Shelby Stein (Greg), Tyler Hancock (Kristin), Miranda Duke (Cody), Brinden Seth Lomax, and Phoebe Pepper; sister: Mary Ann Manning (Howard); nephews: Matthew Manning (Eugenia) and Nathan Manning (Samantha); and countless spiritual friends who have become her adopted brothers, sisters, and children.
In addition to her parents, Merilyn was preceded in death by a grandson, Anthony Pepper.
Of her many hobbies, art and sewing were Merilyn's prominent talents. But her greatest love was teaching many people about her loving heavenly Father and his promises of hope from the Bible.
Merilyn was a devoted wife, mother and friend, and her love for God, life and neighbor will be remembered always.
A memorial service will be on January 28, 2023 at 1:00 pm at the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah's Witnesses, located at 5618 Summer Place, Jonesboro, Arkansas.
