John Andrew Merritt was born on May 28, 1958, in Columbia, Alabama. He departed this life leaving behind a legacy of love, family and cherished memories. John was a dedicated and hardworking man who was employed with Hankerson Construction Company, where he was known for his commitment and strong work ethic. He valued family, friendship and the simple joys of life.

He was preceded in death by his father, Walter Merritt; aunts, Mary Ransom, Betty Johnson, Cora McHellon, Mae Pearl Merritt and Mamie Dale Ward;  uncles, Eddie Mitchell, Lee Mitchell, Jr. and Norman Earl Vickers, Sr; and other relatives, Edwin Evans, Bobby Jackson, Norman Earl Vickers  Jr, Darryl McHellon and Larry Vickers.

John leaves to cherish his loving memories, his mother, Essie Merritt;  sisters, Cynthia Fonseca (Peter) of Miami, Florida, and Patricia Merritt (Winifred) of Tampa; aunts, Ressie Jackson, Ruthie Hunter, Alice Thomas, Ella Mae Allen and Marilyn Mitchell;  uncles, Dan Mitchell (Minnie) and Theodore Merritt (Frances); nieces, Janell Merritt, Angelica Fonseca, Jessica Fonseca, Karleisha Dorsey (Jammal) and Brittany Promise; great nieces, Elyssia, Symone and Africa Bradley; Nikeya, Shanika and  Myra King; nephew Marquise Davis (Erica) and great nephew Nelson Bradley III. He also leaves devoted friends Kathryn Young, Veronica Dearmas and Keesa Rhinehart; along with a host of cousins, relatives, and friends who will forever cherish his memory. John Andrew Merritt will be remembered for his presence, his kindness and the love he shared with those around him. His memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.