Jerry Tillman Merritt

With his family by his side, Jerry T. Merritt, 76, stepped into Glory to meet his Savior on July 25, 2025. His death was unexpected and leaves an unfillable void in the hearts of his beloved family. He is preceded in death by the love of his life – Joyce (Joy), his parents – Alonza and Gladys Merritt, his brother and sisters – AC Merritt, Linnie Sue Bohannon, and Clydie Faye Sickles. He is survived by his children Wayne Merritt (Deana) of Fair Play, SC, Charlotte Merritt of Denton, and Elizabeth Dunn (Chris Dunn) of Hawkinsville; and his sister, Cynthia McLoon (Hugh Kelly) of Hazlehurst. Jerry cherished his grandchildren- Samantha Meritt, Lauren Merritt Cline (Luke), and Lexi Girtman (John and Michelle Girtman). He also adored his great grandchildren- Maddox Poma, Mattison Kate Dunn, and Mackenna Joy Dunn.

Born September 13th, 1948, Jerry (Papa) was a true Southern gentleman. His quiet demeanor hid the enormous heart that he had for his friends and family. For over forty years, he worked tirelessly as the Manager of Sawmill Operations for several large companies, eventually spending the last twenty plus years as the mill manager in both Baxley and Swainsboro with Rayonier. He enjoyed fishing for, what he termed, “the best tasting fish ever”, - redbreast brim in the Satilla River, woodworking and even operating his own sawmill after retirement. After retirement, he and Joy purchased a small farm where he loved to grow a garden and “tinker” on his tractor and sawmill. To him, work was an answer to many problems. For the last three years, Jerry lived in Seneca, SC at the Residences at Park Place. It was there that he “took up dancing,” tending his garden, playing bingo, and socializing with his friends. He enjoyed fishing with his son and shopping with his daughter-in-law.

Most of all, Jerry was a devout family man. He and his wife, Joyce, were married for over 53 years. Joyce and his family were his life. He enjoyed nothing more than spending time with them while he quietly watched and listened. He believed in respect, honesty, and earning anything he acquired.

Jerry gave his heart to the Lord at a young age. He was a member of Macedonia Church of God. Jerry had no doubt that he would meet Jesus and be reunited with his beloved wife.

The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Sunday at Wainright and Parlor Funeral Home, Sunday, July 27th, 2025 from 6pm-8pm.

Funeral services will be held on Monday, July 28th, 2025, at 1:00pm at Macedonia Church of God with Pastor Van McCall officiating. Burial will follow in the Denton Cemetery. Active pallbearers will be Kelvin Bohannon, Stacy Merritt, Danny “Bunny” Daniel, Deric Bohannon, Kelly McLoon Jr., and John Smith. Honorary pallbearers will be the residents and staff of The Residences at Park Place.

Wainright and Parlor is in charge of funeral arrangements.

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