A graduate of Erskine College with a degree in business administration, he began his civilian career with Doty Scientific in Columbia, SC. He returned to college to pursue a degree in nursing and finished his civilian career with the Department of Juvenile Justice as a staff nurse. Mr. Merritt was a long-serving member of the United States Armed Forces, retiring as a flight nurse, from North Carolina Air National Guard in 2010. He had achieved the rank of Lieutenant Colonel.
Mr. Merritt was a longtime member of Northeast United Methodist Church, and enjoyed Gamecock sports, golfing, and time spent with friends and family. He was an animal lover, and especially enjoyed time with his rescue dogs and cats that became family over the years.
He is survived by his wife of 42 years, Judith Rush Merritt; daughters, Claire Merritt Porter (William) of Easley, SC and Kathleen Merritt of Columbia, SC. In addition to two grandsons, Will and Wyatt Porter of Easley; he is survived by 2 brothers, Bob Merritt (Lynn) of Palm Springs, CA and John Merritt (Ginger) of Spartanburg, SC; and a sister, Jane Merritt of Franklin, MA. Mr. Merritt was predeceased by his parents; and a brother, James Merritt.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Monday, June 26, 2023 at 11:00 A.M. at Caughman-Harman Funeral Home, Lexington Chapel. The family will receive friends at Caughman-Harman Funeral Home, Lexington Chapel at 10:00 A.M. preceding the Service. Inurnment will follow the service at 2:00 P.M. at Fort Jackson National Cemetery, where he will receive full military honors.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Tunnel to Towers, or any local animal rescue of your choice.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.caughmanlexington.com for the Merritt family.
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