Deacon Ralph Merritt

Obituary For Deacon Ralph Merritt

Ralph Merritt, was born on October 17, 1946 to the late Martha Lois Merritt and James Merritt. He graduated from Booker High School, Barnesville, Georgia, in 1964.

Ralph attended Fort Valley State College, where he played drums in the Blue and Gold Marching Band. Before completing his college education, he was drafted into the United States Army to serve his country in the Vietnam War.

After returning home from his tour of duty, Ralph’s employment history eventually led him to the J. C. Penney Company, from which he retired after 30 years of service.

Ralph joined Bethel A.M.E. Church at a very young age and, during his adult years, became very active in the church. He served as a Steward and later joined his family at Towaliga County Line Baptist Church. He was ordained a deacon on November 14, 2021. He was a member of The Brotherhood Ministry, Crowder Sunday School Class, and served faithfully until his death.

Ralph’s memory will be cherished by: his wife of 33 years, Tammie Traylor Merritt of Barnesville, Georgia; two sons, Jonathan Merritt of Barnesville, Georgia and Brian Merritt of McDonough, Georgia; one daughter, Erica Colquitt of McDonough Georgia; two bonus children; a daughter, Dontauneia Traylor, and a son, Ryran Traylor, both of Barnesville, Georgia; 12 grandchildren and 7 great-grandchildren; sisters, Diane Hugh of Barnesville, Georgia, Nancy (Nate) Stouttermire of Detroit, MI, and Janice (Curtis) Carter of Barnesville, Georgia; brothers, Clifford (Betty) Banks of Barnesville, Georgia, Frederick Merritt of Barnesville, Georgia, Anthony (Debra) Merritt of Detroit, MI; sisters-in-law, Elizabeth Crawford and Susan (Otis) Miller, both of Barnesville, Georgia. Ralph was also blessed with many nieces, nephews, cousins, and very dear friends.

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