Richard "Big Richard" Merritt

Richard “Big Richard” Merritt, age 73, passed away Monday, October 17, 2022 at Forrest General Hospital in Hattiesburg, MS. He was born in Pittsburgh, PA and was a longtime resident of Foxworth, MS. Richard worked more than 20 years as a truck driver. As an avid fan of both, he always supported his beloved "Pittsburgh Steelers", as well as Nascar racing. Richard loved spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren. He will be greatly missed.

Mr. Merritt was preceded in death by his parents, Oliver Merritt and Haroldine Tobin Merritt; sister, Carolyn Turnage; and grandson, David Oliver Merritt. His memory will be forever cherished by his wife of 41 years, Sharon Merritt; his son, Shelton Merritt (Kellie); and sister, Shirley Cato; all of Foxworth, three grandchildren, Dakoda Merritt, MaKenzie Merritt, and Elijah Stogner; and several nieces, nephews.

Visitation will be on Friday, October 21, 2022 from 9:00 am until 11:00 am at Colonial Funeral Home in Columbia, MS followed by a graveside service at 12:00 pm at Victory Cemetery in Foxworth. Reverend James Williams and Reverend Max Campbell will officiate and will be assisted by Jacob Merritt, Jeffrey McWhorter, Dakoda Merritt, Toby Herring, Rick Nellis, Michael Paul Pounds as pallbearers and honorary pallbearers, James Ivy, III, Duane Bates, Mackie Breeland, and Josh Herring.