Search by Name

Search by Name

Richard Merritt Obituary

Richard N. Merritt of Woodstown, NJ, passed away at age 86 on May 5, 2016. He is survived by his former wife, Florence Merrit, and his daughters, Heather Gallagher and Gwen Buchanan. Born in Paterson, NJ, he served in the armed forces and then attended Princeton Theological Seminary. He served faithfully as a pastor in presbyterian churches in Mcaleveys Fort, PA, Lewisburg, Pa with the last one being Great Valley Presbyterian Church in Malvern. Known for his kindness to all and his ability to communicate the grace and love of Christ to his congregations, Richard had a deep impact on his congregants and those in the community. His wit, humor and love of literature wove throughout his sermons and writings. His sermons stirred the mind and the soul in equal measure. Although of man of letters, his passions also included jazz, Mel Brooks, baseball, locomotives and hot texas weiners from his hometown. A memorial service will be held at Great Valley Presbyterian Church in Malvern, PA on Friday May 20th at 11am.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Daily Local from May 16 to May 17, 2016.

Memories and Condolences
for Richard Merritt

Sponsored by DailyLocal.com.

Not sure what to say?





3 Entries

Bob Kribbs

May 20, 2016

Dick Merritt's preaching was intellectually vigorous and spiritually demanding, enhanced by his knowledge of and love for literature. My wife and I are forever grateful for having experienced the final year of Dick's pastorate in Lewisburg, PA, in 1975-76. He steadied our faith and set us on a 40+ year journey at First Presbyterian. God rest his soul. Our prayers go out to Flossie, Heather, Gwen, and their families.

Bob and Sharon Kribbs

Alec Wendell

May 19, 2016

Following Dick Merritt at the 1st Presbyterian Church, Lewisburg was a challenging experience. Never hoped to 'fill his shoes'-' just enjoyed his friendship, humor, wisdom and preaching! His impact on the Bucknell students who attended "Presby" was incalculable, during his years of ministry in Lewisburg- It was not uncommon for me to step up to the pulpit on a Sunday morning and see a strange note under the microphone with the words "REPENT! (But you may disregard if you have already!)Farewell my brother"Blessed are those who die in the Lord.."

Bob Stier

May 17, 2016

Dick was a good friend and example to me, a younger pastor in the PCUSA ministry. I enjoyed our times together. He graciously took strong stands for Biblical fidelity.

Showing 1 - 3 of 3 results

Make a Donation
in Richard Merritt's name

Memorial Events
for Richard Merritt

May

20

Memorial service

11:00 a.m.

Great Valley Presbyterian Church

Malvern, PA

How to support Richard's loved ones
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Poems of Mourning and Comfort

The best poems for funerals, memorial services., and cards.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief

Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.

Read more
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
Ways to honor Richard Merritt's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more