October 10, 1948 — November 16, 2024
Roger Dale Merritt, 76, of Bladenboro went home to be with the Lord on Saturday, November 16, 2024, while at Lower Cape Fear Lifecare Center in Wilmington. He was born on October 10, 1948, in Robeson County the son of the late Christopher Columbus Merritt and Josephine Barr Merritt. He was also preceded in death by his wife, Judith H. Merritt, son Craig Haywood, sister-in-law Sue Siler and mother-in-law Versie Hickman.
Left to cherish his memory are wife Diane Merritt of the home, sons Justin Merritt (Misti) of Shelby, Blake Merritt (Jennifer) of Bladenboro, and Keith Haywood (Tina) of Lumberton, daughter Jolie Merritt Hathcock (Matt) of Bladenboro, two sisters, Judy Sealey (Glenn) of Lumberton, Cathy Eason (Larry) of Bladenboro, nine grandchildren, Brandon Haywood, Misty Bryan, Jenna Hathcock, Lindsay Ventura, Trent Haywood, Levi Haywood, Sydnie Merritt, Campbell Merritt and Braylen Merritt, ten great grandchildren, Banks Singletary, Blaise, Arlo and Ellie Haywood, Braxton, Mia, and Mateo Ventura, Madison Bryan, Lexi Haywood, and Leo Haywood. He also leaves behind special friends, Michael, Stephanie, Haley, and Ashton Bryan and special fur baby, Muffy.
Roger was an honorable man of great faith and unquestionable integrity. He proudly served our country and his love for his family was apparent in all he did. His grandchildren brought him the greatest joy and he was known as a friend to all. His love for his church family was immense, and he especially loved working with AWANA, where he, Bill and Lloyd were affectionately known as the “3 Musketeers”. He happily served in various capacities through the years.
Roger loved cruising with special friends Patsy and Andy and traveled from Alaska to Nova Scotia and many places in between. He loved animals and always took care of those that found their way to him.
While he will be missed, there is comfort knowing that he will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.
The family will receive friends on Tuesday, November 19, 2024 from 2-3 pm at Galeed Church in Bladenboro followed by a funeral service at 3:00 pm with the Reverend Brett Young and Pastor Trent Haywood officiating. Burial will follow the services in the Hickory Grove Cemetery in Bladenboro.
In lieu of flowers, please make donations to The Samaritan’s Purse, PO Box 3000. Boone, NC 28607 or call
828.262.1980.
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