Bill > HR0452

This resolution mourns the passing of Antoine Lamar Merrick, a dedicated coach, father, and community member from Chicago Heights who died on July 31, 2025. Born in Mobile, Alabama in 1982 and raised in Tampa, Florida, Merrick had a diverse career that included working at PepsiCo and as a truck driver before finding his true calling in coaching. He coached basketball and volleyball at various institutions, including St. Agnes Catholic School, the Amateur Athletic Union (AAU) circuit, and eventually Marian Catholic High School and Rich Township High School, where he was known for believing in and supporting his players. Merrick created his own basketball program called Power Moves Elite (PME) and was remembered as a loving husband to Kelli, father to four children, and a significant influence on thousands of lives. The resolution expresses deep sympathy for his family and recognizes his contributions to sports and community, and includes a provision to present a copy of the resolution to his family as a gesture of condolence.

https://www.ilga.gov/Legislation/BillStatus?DocNum=452&GAID=18&DocTypeID=HR&SessionID=114&GA=104