Merna Mae Holaway, 97, of Watseka, Illinois, passed away Friday, July 30, 2021, at her home in Watseka.

A family, graveside funeral service will be held on Saturday August 14, 2021 at Waldo Cemetery in rural Gridley, Illinois, officiated by Pastor John Franklin. The family suggest memorials to Iroquois Memorial Hospice.
Merna was born on August 9, 1923, in rural Minonk to William and Mae (Saltzman) Yordy. She married Harold Holaway on January 1, 1946, at her parents’ home. He preceded her in death on January 16, 2008.

Surviving are a daughter, Linda Holaway of Watseka; and four sons; Randall (Saundra) Holaway of Dixon, Illinois; Gary Holaway of Bloomington, Illinois, Stuart Holaway of Middlebury, Indiana; and Richard Holaway of Indianapolis, Indiana. Also surviving are 14 grandchildren, 21 great-grandchildren and nine great-great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her twin sister Verna Long, her sister Aldine Hartzler, one grandson and one great grandson.

Merna received a degree in education from Goshen College in Goshen, Indiana, and served as the sole teacher at a one-room school in rural Dana, Illinois, before her marriage. She also was a substitute teacher for several years. She devoted the majority of her life to her family, particularly caring for many years for her special needs daughter. She was a long-time member of the First United Methodist Church in Watseka, where she taught Sunday School and actively served the church in many ways.
Merna was an avid golfer and tennis player and enjoyed entertaining her family and friends. She was loved by her family and friends and respected by all.

Arrangements are by the Knapp Funeral Home in Watseka.