James Kevin Merrill

Jim was born October 28, 1960 in Somerset, PA to the late Charles Robert Merrill and Erma Brothers Merrill. He served in the US Marine Corps from 1978 to 1982 and then as a civilian became a plumber who eventually owned his own plumbing company for many years. Jim then switched from being a plumber to being a plumbing inspector and for the last few years he was the Special Team Senior Plumbing Inspector for the City of Raleigh, NC.

Jim was an avid Pittsburgh Steelers fan, attending as many home football games as he could and being sure to watch every game they played on television no matter where he was. He also enjoyed riding motorcycles, competing in observed trials events, going to concerts, coaching soccer, traveling, and cooking. He especially enjoyed grilling on his Big Green Egg and having friends and family over for a cookout. He was a loving husband, brother, father and grandfather and a friend to many.

James was preceded in death by his son, Justin Daniel Merrill.

He is survived by his wife of nine years, Melissa Schuster Merrill; son, James Brandon Merrill and his wife, Laura; stepson, Harrison Foster Ashwell; stepdaughter, Miranda Layne Ashwell; daughter-in-law, Amanda Merrill; grandchildren, James Emmett Merrill, Elliott Thomas Merrill, and Carter Anderson Merrill; brothers, Ken and Chad; and sisters, Peg, Kelli and Heather.

A memorial service will be held 2pm Saturday, July 17, 2021 at Apex Funeral Home Chapel, 550 W. Williams St., Apex, NC 27502. The family will receive friends immediately following the service.

In lieu of flowers Jim asked that donations be made in his honor to the Marine Corps-Law Enforcement Foundation, which provides scholarships to children of a parent who died in service to our country.

Condolences may be sent to www.ApexFuneral.net