Maria "Merry" J. Landis-Derham

Merry Landis-Derham, 80, died at home, peacefully in her sleep.

Merry is the daughter of the late Howard and Jeannette Landis. She is survived by her beloved husband, Bill Derham, whom she worked with in the Advertising Department of the Philadelphia Inquirer/Daily News for almost 40 years. She is also survived by her children, Terry and Billy, and her grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren. She will be greatly missed by her loving family and many cherished friends.

Merry was a devout Catholic and was active in her parish church. She was especially grateful to serve our Lord as an Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion. She was blessed to serve at Mass and at local senior residences. She also assisted with the annual parish carnival, Project Mercy Meals and attended many parish events. 

Merry was a shining example of Christ’s light to all who knew her. Merry enjoyed spending time with family and friends. Her loving presence, wonderful sense of humor and her caring and compassionate nature made her a joy to be around. Her husband described her as being “all love” and she truly was. She also enjoyed music, often singing, playing the piano and dancing with her husband, family and friends. Merry also loved to retreat to her Heaven on Earth, spending many summers in her treasured Brigantine. She loved the sun, beach and to be near the ocean.

Family prefers Memorial Donations be made in Merry's honor to Maternity B.V.M. Church.

Relatives and friends are invited to celebrate her life on Thursday, January 15, 2026. Her Visitation begins at 9 A.M. followed by a Funeral Mass at 10 A.M., Maternity B.V.M. Church, 9220 Old Bustleton Avenue (near Welsh Rd. and Bustleton Avenue). Interment of urn will follow at Resurrection Cemetery, Bensalem.

Guckin Funeral Home, Inc. 215-743-7256