Darren Thomas August Merritt

Darren Thomas August Merritt, 49, of Lake Jackson, TX passed away peacefully with his family by his side on June 30th, 2023. He was born in Galveston, TX to Gary and Eunice Merritt and now waits patiently in the car for his wife while she finishes up a few things before joining him.

Darren lit up the room with his presence, laughter, and stories. He had a servant’s heart and always made sure to not only brighten someone’s day but also ensure they went home from work safely. He always had a story or joke in his back pocket to share and always tied it back to that day’s safety moment. He had remarkable strength and character which is reflected through his children and the life he led. His love for his wife was undeniable and would always say that she would take his breath away with her smile. He and his family fought cancer together for 4 1/2 years and continued to fight right to the very end.

Darren loved serving others. He taught at The Pregnancy Help Center for over 10 years helping new parents build resumes, prepare them for interviews, and give insight as to how future employers would interpret answers in interviews and provide the tools needed to create authentic, thoughtful answers. He served as a soccer and T-Ball coach, as well as a Cub Scout Leader while his children were growing up. He also served for 15 years with the Keep Lake Jackson Beautiful committee for the City of Lake Jackson where they helped beautify the city and worked closely with the Youth Advisory Council while his children also served along side him. He and his family are members of BrazosPointe Fellowship where they served in various areas both in and outside the church.

Spc. Merritt proudly served in the United States Army from 1994-1997 in Korea and Ft. Hood. He worked as Assistant Manager for Jason’s Deli and Enterprise Rent-A-Car, Dietary services Brazosport Hospital, and in Human Resources at Kelly Services which led him to the last 9 1/2 years as a Health and Safety Tech for both PDH and LHC-9 at Dow Chemical. Safety was always a priority for Darren as well as making sure everyone went home safely at the end of the day.

Darren attended Brazoswood High School from 1988-1990 where he met and later married his wife. Darren’s family moved to Selma, Alabama in 1990 where he graduated from Dallas County High School in 1992. His proudest achievement during that time was his football team winning their State Championship in 1991 where he was a Lineman and played both sides. Later he chose to go back to school where he graduated in 2003 with business degree from LeTourneau University and then went on to complete his formal education at the University of Phoenix graduating in 2006 with a MBA. Later, he would further his education by obtaining his Health and Safety Certification. He loved building things made from pallets for friends and family. He ran the Austin half-marathon in 2016 with his wife and loved playing cards with friends and family.

Darren is survived by the love of his life, Elizabeth, wife of 27 years and their 4 children, Zachary, Madeline, Annaleah, and Jackson; Father, Gary Merritt; Sister, Carrie (Lee) Cherian; Brother, Martin (Cassandra) Merritt; several nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends.

He is preceded in death by his mother Eunice Merritt, grandparents, aunts, uncles and cousins.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to the cancer center of your choice so we can continue to fight this terrible disease.