Merrill Lawrence Hutchinson Jr. passed away peacefully at home on June 22, 2026 following a courageous battle with brain cancer. Born on June 15, 1963, to the late Merrill Sr. and Ruth Hutchinson, Merrill was known for his steadfast faith, quick wit, and lifelong commitment to serving others.
In July 1987, Merrill married his best friend, Linda, establishing a deep partnership in faith and ministry that became the foundation for both their growing family and their life’s work.
Merrill spent 32 years as a teacher, coach, and counselor in the SE Indiana schools working at South Dearborn, East Central, and Batesville High Schools, and his last 20 years at Bright Elementary. He also served as a Deacon at Bright Christian Church and President of the SEI Pregnancy Care Center. In 2018, he and Linda co-founded Rock Solid Families, a faith-based non-profit dedicated to helping individuals and families.
Merrill is survived by his wife, Linda; their five children: Nick (Lane) Hutchinson, Zach (Katie) Hutchinson, Cameron (Dakota) Hutchinson, Makenzie (Caden) Wheat, and Nick Hutchinson; and seven grandchildren: Lucy, Dietrich, Paulina, Frankie, Teddy, Briggs, and Reese, with another grandchild expected in November. He is also survived by his siblings: Jan (Drew) Jackson, Julie (Mark) Moore, Ted (Veronica) Hutchinson, and Ed (Ann) Hutchinson. Merrill was preceded in death by his parents, Merrill Sr. and Ruth Hutchinson.
“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness…” — 2 Timothy 4:7-8
“Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock…” – Matthew 7:24
Services honoring Merrill will be held on Friday, June 26 at Bright Christian Church. Visitation will begin at 12:00pm and continue until the time of the funeral service at 3:00pm. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Rock Solid Families or the Loving Hearts Hospice Foundation. Donations will be accepted at the visitation or can be mailed to the funeral home. Family and friends are encouraged to leave condolences at www.andres-wuestefeldfh.com.