Merri Dee had a long career in Chicago media as a television anchor on WGN-TV, Channel 9, from 1972-1983; then as Director of Community Relations and manager of the the stations Children’s Charities until 2008. After leaving broadcasting she served the Illinois Chapter of AARP until 2022.

She was born, Mary Francis Dorham in Chicago. Her first job was in radio in Harvey, Illinois at WBEE. She then went to WCIU, followed by WSNS where she hosted her own talk show The Merri Dee Show.

In 1971, she survived a kidnapping and murder attempt. She was involved in Illinois’ adoption of the Victim’s Bill of Rights in 1992, which became the basis of legislation in other states. Merri Dee was well known for her work with charities and has received several awards.

Alum
Midwestern Broadcasting School
Xavier University, Louisiana
Englewood Technical Prep Academy, Chicago

Honorary Merri Dee Way

1300 South Damen Avenue at West 13th Street

Approved: November 2013

Ward: 02
Alderman: Fioretti
Neighborhood: Near West Side/Illinois Medical District

b. October 30, 1936 in Chicago
d. March 16, 2022. Age 85

Source

20137731

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Merri_Dee

https://youtu.be/EvPbpe_OiFs?si=X1e2qDKlxRQbKjtg