Major Merriell Hanks born August 31, 1930 was “Promoted to Glory” on February 10th, 2022, with her loving children, Douglas (Stella), Lynda (Lee) and Jennifer (Rick) by her side. She was predeceased by her beloved husband Major Douglas, her parents, Wilfred, and Elizabeth Ward (Jones) and her sister Florence (Chester) Vollmin with one remaining sister, Lynda (Alan) Flannigan. She was loved and will be missed by her grandchildren, Quentin, Spencer, Gabor, and Tamas. Left to mourn Merriell is her American daughter, Anna (Tony) Cisneros, her grandchildren Monica, Michelle, Hazel and Jonathan and their families. Merriell had many nieces and nephews in Alberta and Ontario. She enjoyed a special relationship with her niece Kelly Flannigan Bos (Jacco) and their children, Holland and Lincoln. Merriell spent a life of service as a Salvation Army Officer across Canada, in Bermuda and Hong Kong before retiring in her hometown, Orillia. She served in many capacities during her extensive career and never really stopped in her devotion to helping people through teaching and counselling. She hoped to bring them to a better understanding of God and his plan for their lives. Merriell’s daughter once said she never knew anyone who had more friends here and across the world than her mother. As these friends receive word of Merriell’s passing there will be a deep sense of loss but also a great many good memories. In the meantime, picture her total happiness at arriving in Heaven, her ultimate and longed for destination with Jesus meeting her and to finally be with Doug and so many people she loved who have gone on before. A celebration of Merriell’s life will take place at The Salvation Army – Orillia Citadel, 157 Coldwater Rd. W., in Orillia on Saturday April 23, 2022 starting at 2 pm. A reception will follow on site. We wish to thank the wonderful PSWs and staff at Helping Hands who provided such good care of her and also, the staff at Trillium Manor, a truly lovely place to call home. In addition, her Salvation Army Corps family that she loved so well for the many years she called Orillia home. Arrangements entrusted to Carson Funeral Homes – L. Doolittle Chapel, 54 Coldwater St. E Orillia (705) 326-3595.