Robert Merritt

Robert Merritt, 71, of Elizabethtown passed away Saturday, January 15, 2022 at Bladen County Hospital. He was preceded in death by his parents, Kerney and Maude Ruth Merritt and sisters: Betty Smith and Joyce Mote. Robert leaves behind his wife, Sandy Merritt; daughter, Stacy Boykin and husband Woody; brother, Kenneth Merritt and wife Sheila of Elizabethtown; brother-in-law, Rodger Joyce and wife Jill of Mt. Pleasant; two sisters: Jackie Robinson and husband Dillard of Siler City, Elnora Langley and husband Johnny of Staley, NC; sisters-in-law: Sylvia Craven of Sumter, SC and Shelly Joyce of Bear Creek, NC and numerous nieces and nephews.

Robert loved and served his country with pride and was in the Navy from 1968-1975. He was a beloved long term resident of Elizabethtown for over 43 years.  Robert was a kind, loyal friend and dedicated family man.  He was married to the love of his life for over 50 years and they had a beautiful daughter Stacy that he was very proud of and always had his biggest smile when he spoke of her.  His daughter Stacy married Woody Boykin who became like the son Robert never had and they spent many happy times together at the coast, and any place they were, he was the happiest.  One of Robert's favorite pastimes in recent years was spending time with his great niece Kennedy, and great nephews Kaison and Greylen.  They were such a welcomed joy in his life.

Robert was a lover of all things outdoors. He enjoyed his garden, hunting in his younger years, and building or creating additions to his home on a regular basis.  Robert was the quintessential handy man and could fix anything. Family always had at least one or two projects they needed his "advice" on whenever he visited. He was always willing to lend a hand to family, friends and even complete strangers.  Robert is what you would call an amazing human being. Almost all of Roberts' career was spent working side by side with his brother, Kenneth, at Merritt Logging.  Robert never really did “retire” as logging, and the family business, was in his blood for life and he was totally dedicated.
Robert was a humble, quiet man but when he had something to say - you listened -because it was either very profound or very funny.  He had a dry wit and a great sense of humor.  We are all overwhelmed with the sadness of his unexpected passing and our hearts are broken.

A graveside service will be held at 1:30pm on Wednesday, January 19th in the Old Trinity Church Cemetery in Elizabethtown. Masks are recommended for all attendees.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Trinity UMC General Fund or Elizabethtown Christian Academy.