Carol J. Cortright, 59, of Merrill, passed away Friday, April 3, 2026, at her home under the care of her family and Interim Hospice.
Carol was born December 16, 1966, in Chicago, daughter of Donald and Sherida ‘Jean’ (Ward) Franzen. She graduated from Merrill High School with the Class of 1985. Carol married Gerald ‘Jerry’ Cortright on July 7, 2001, in Merrill. He survives. Carol worked for many years at Lincoln Industries as a caretaker.
Carol will be remembered as selfless, caring, witty and strong. She loved her grandkids. Carol volunteered with the Special Olympics for many years. She was a member of Merrill Eagle’s Auxiliary and helped cook at the Eagle’s Club. Carol enjoyed being outdoors, camping, and swimming. She also enjoyed hosting family dinners, listening to music, and collecting angels.
Survivors include her husband, Jerry Cortright of Merrill; daughters, Loniann Young, Stephanie Young, and Tammera Graap all of Merrill, and Kenna Smith of Schofield; grandchildren, Jordan Erickson, Violet Weiss, Jenna Weiss, Destiny Weiss, Aceson Graap, Emilee Woodard, Shylynn Williams, and D’Andre Williams; great grandson, Holden Weiss; brothers, Roger (Linda) Franzen of Merrill, Scott (Dawn) Franzen of Albertville, MN, Larry Scolley of Red Wing, MN, and Dennis (Heather) Scolley of Berlin, WI; and many nieces and nephews.
Carol was preceded in death by her parents, Donald and Sherida ‘Jean’ Franzen; and brother, Thomas Franzen.
The Mass of Christian Burial will take place at 12:00 P.M., Noon, Friday, April 17, 2026, at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, Bloomville. Father John Long will preside. A visitation will be held from 9:00 A.M. until 11:30 A.M. Friday, April 17, 2026, at Taylor-Stine-Waid Funeral & Cremation – 301 Eagle Dr., Merrill, WI.
Taylor-Stine-Waid Funeral & Cremation of Merrill is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences are encouraged and may be made at www.taylorstinewaid.com
