John Howard Merritt, Jr.

John Howard Merritt, Jr., 92, of Oak Hill went home to be with his Lord and Savior and the love of his life, Betty Ann on Sunday, April 6, 2025 at his residence, peacefully with his family by his side. 

Born December 7, 1932 at Oak Hill, he was the son of the late John Howard Merritt, Sr. and Virginia Susan (Kirby) Merritt. 

John was a manager/dispatcher for Ashland Oil and Gas Company. He was the last surviving founding member of Oak Hill Church of the Nazarene. In his leisure, he enjoyed reading his Bible and spending time with his family. 

In addition to his parents, he is also preceded in death by his wife, Betty Ann (Elder) Merritt; and brother, James Merritt. 

Those left to cherish his memory include his children, Lavonda Hughes and her husband, Timothy of Oak Hill, John Edward Merritt and his wife, Karen of Oak Hill, James Howard Merritt and his wife, Connie of Oak Hill, and Steven Wayne Merritt and his wife, Christina of Cincinnati; thirteen grandchildren; seven great grandchildren; sister, Mary Sue Fankell of Oak Hill; and brother, Jerry Merritt and his wife, Marion of California. 

Services will be 3:00 P.M., Friday, April 11, 2025, at the Oak Hill Church of the Nazarene in Oak Hill with his son, Rev. Steven W. Merritt officiating. Entombment will follow in High Lawn Memorial Park, Oak Hill. 

Friends may call one hour prior to services Friday at the Oak Hill Church of the Nazarene.

Family and friends will serve as pallbearers. 

Online condolences may be expressed to the family at www.tyreefuneralhome.com

The family of John Merritt, Jr. is being cared for by Tyree Funeral Home.