Merilyn Kay (Freeman) DeVries, 85, of Jamestown, Michigan, entered the presence of her Lord and Savior on Sunday, January 19, 2025, surrounded by her loved ones. She was born on September 29, 1939, in Grand Rapids, Michigan, to Russell and Helen Freeman.

Merilyn had a strong faith in Jesus Christ and was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, daughter, and friend. She devoted her life to her faith, her family, and
her friends.

After graduating from Hope College, Merilyn moved to California with her cousin to begin her teaching career with second and third graders. While there, she met her husband, Dan DeVries. They were married on August 14, 1964, and recently celebrated 60 wonderful years together. During that time, they raised four children and built a life grounded in faith, love, and family. On one memorable occasion, Merilyn embraced an entrepreneurial adventure, co-founding a gymnastics bus business with a friend called "Forward Wee Roll."

Merilyn's life was a testament to her deeply rooted faith and her unwavering commitment to serving others. She had a remarkable gift for making people feel valued and cared for, evident in her support and encouragement of refugees as they adjusted to life in the U.S. Merilyn also volunteered with Reach the Forgotten (Forgotten Man Ministries) and World Renew (CRWRC), traveling with Dan to assist communities recovering from disasters.

Her family and friends will always treasure her warmth, witty humor, and loving presence. Cherished memories include hours spent playing card games, solving puzzles, sharing favorite treats, and enjoying her signature back scratches. Merilyn loved quality time with her grandchildren, never missing an opportunity to attend their events and cheer them on with pride. Her faith, compassion, and unwavering devotion to her family leave a lasting legacy for those who knew and loved her.

She is survived by her husband, Dan DeVries; her children, Michele (Kevin) Mauer, Kevin (Amy) DeVries, David (Sheena) DeVries, and Debra (Peter) Johnson; and her grandchildren, Korey (Clarissa) Mauer, Amanda Mauer, Tyler (Tiffany) Mauer, Kaelee (Zachary) Rumley, Emma DeVries, Maya (Michael) Gudbrandson, Noah DeVries, Hunter Boe, and a great-grandbaby on the way. She is also survived by her siblings, William (Kathy) Grant, Andy Jr. (Linda) Grant, Cathy (Tom) Van Kalker, Clarence (Joyce) DeVries, and Linda Thompson. Additionally, she leaves behind many extended family members and special, dear friends who brought joy to her life.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Russell Freeman and Helen Grant; her stepfather, Andy Grant; her parents-in-law, Clarence and Mary DeVries; and her brothers-in-law, Robert DeVries and Joel Thompson.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Merilyn's life at Zion Reformed Church in Grandville, Michigan. Visitation will take place on Friday, January 24, from 2:00–4:00 PM and 6:00–8:00 PM. The funeral service will be held on Saturday, January 25, at 11:00 AM, preceded by an hour of visitation from 10:00–11:00 AM. A luncheon will follow the service.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Guiding Light Ministries.

We celebrate her coming home as a faithful servant, even as we grieve. Her favorite verse was Isaiah 55:1-2.
"Come, all you who are thirsty,
come to the waters;
and you who have no money,
come, buy and eat!
Come, buy wine and milk
without money and without cost.
Why spend money on what is not bread,
and your labor on what does not satisfy?
Listen, listen to me, and eat what is good,
and you will delight in the richest of fare."