Elizabeth "Liz" (Lankford) Merrifield

It is with heavy hearts we announce the passing of  Elizabeth “Liz” Marie Merrifield, a beloved wife, daughter,  sister, mother, and grandmother, who left us on December  26, 2024 at the age of 51. 

Liz loved spending time with Jason at her summer place on the lake entertaining family and friends as well as  playing with the family pet, Mia. She always looked  forward to antiquing with mother and sister and then  decorating her home with her special finds. She was a  great supporter of MSU sports and the Detroit Lions. It  was a special day when she met and had her picture  taken with MSU coach, Tom Izzo. This past year she  looked forward to babysitting grandson Crew whenever  she could. He has been the joy of her life.  

Liz was born on August 17, 1973. She attended and  graduated from Portland schools participating in  cheerleading and track. She worked at Auto Owners  Insurance for 24 years working her way to a supervisor  position. She made some beautiful friendships while  working there. 

A day she highly cherished was her wedding day when  she married Jason. She planned every aspect of the  ceremony and carried out a beautiful day.

Liz is survived by her spouse, Jason Merrifield,  grandmother, Margaret Gabrion, parents, Marty and Robin Lankford, children, Taylor Lankford, Libby Lankford, Torri,  Jake, Jared and Jaysah Merrifield, and Bailey Pierce.  Grandchildren, Crew Kraft, Toliah and Taelynn Merrifield, and Ariyah Merrifield. Siblings, Tim and Kim (Crawford) Lankford, Marsha Lankford, Joe and Christine (Darling) Lankford. Also many nephews and nieces. Liz was preceded in death by grandparents, Lewis and Dorothy Lankford and John Sherrill. 

In lieu of flowers please make a donation to American  Cancer of Michigan or UofM/Sparrow Health Foundation. 

A celebration of life will take place on January 18, 2025 from 2-5 p.m. at Fabiano's Corning Landing, 128 West Grand River Avenue, Ionia, Michigan. Arrangements are entrusted to Lehman Funeral Homes. Online condolences may be made at www.lehmanfuneralhomes.com.

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