Melvin D. Merritt, age 83, of Rockwall, TX, went to be with the Lord on April 27, 2020. He was born March 1, 1937, in Waxahachie, TX, to Arthur Roland Merritt and Opal LaRue (McCollum) Merritt. Melvin was ordained as a minister in 1957 at First Baptist Church in Cooper, TX. He preached his first sermon on the Love of God that following Sunday. He served as an interim pastor at Port Bolivar First Baptist Church in Galveston, TX. From 1958 to 1967, he was called to preach at many different churches, Hillcrest Baptist Church in Mt. Pleasant, Piney Grove Baptist Church in Piney Grove, TX, and Old Concord Baptist Church in Greenville, TX. Afterward, Melvin continued to preach revivals and did supply work. He was active in the Rockwall Gideons, serving as president for one year. Melvin was the song leader at Fate Baptist Church where he was also Chairman of the Deacons. Song leader at Princeton Park Baptist Church in Rowlett. Charter member of Princeton Park helping to plant the church as a mission of FBC Rockwall and FBC Rowlett. He did mission work in Latvia where over 100 people came to know Christ during their first visit. On his last trip to Latvia, he was able to visit a church started by new Christians who had been saved during his first trip. Melvin also did mission work in Osorio Brazil in 1993 and in Idaho in 1999. He taught Sunday school, men’s and couples at Summer Ridge Retirement. He participated as a weekend team member for Experiencing God and Master Life weekend, was active in Promise Keepers in the early years as a counselor, served as a mentor to young men, and served with Mission Service Corps as a consultant. Melvin also taught middle and high school, served as a principal, assistant principal, and dean of students. Melvin influenced many lives. He loved to read and travel with his wife in their RV. His presence will be deeply missed by everyone who loved him.
Melvin is survived by his loving wife: Sarah Merritt of Rockwall, TX; daughters: Ginger Merritt Featherston and husband Ricky of Ben Wheeler, TX, and Lisa Merritt of Ferris, TX; son: Paul Merritt and wife Chris of Bullard, TX; grandchildren: Heather Slayton, Pat Featherston and wife Polly, Joshua Slayton and wife Tina, Michael Slayton and wife Mandy, David Featherston and wife Jessica, Joshua Merritt and partner Jasmine; eight great-grandchildren; brother: Billy Merritt and wife Barbara of Cookville, TX; brother-in-law: Bob Granstaff; and numerous nieces, nephews, and friends. He was preceded in death by his stepson: Jamie Blanton; and his parents.
A private graveside service will be held at Rest Haven Memorial Park.
