John Edward Merritt

John Edward Merritt, affectionately known as "Billy Joe" and "Buckwheat," was a brilliant
educator, dedicated agricultural inspector, faithful church member, and devoted family
man. The lasting impression he leaves is felt deeply by all who had the privilege of
knowing him. He will be greatly missed.

Born on May 18, 1936, in Coffee County, Georgia, John was the eldest child born to the
late Robert Lee Merritt and Blanche Dumas Merritt Frost. On Tuesday, August 19, 2025,
God called His faithful servant home from labor to reward.
At an early age, John learned the value of hard work. As a child, he worked in the fields
of South Georgia, picking cotton and tobacco. In his teenage years, he continued
agricultural work while also serving at a local country club. During college, he began his
mornings working at the campus dairy, quickly becoming popular and admired by his
peers.

John attended Ocilla Elementary and High School in Ocilla, Georgia, where he
graduated as valedictorian of his class. He went on to study at Fort Valley State
University, where he pledged Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. and remained a proud
lifetime member. After graduation, he married his college sweetheart, Trunell Glover,
and enlisted in the United States Army. Following her passing in 1962, John continued
his path in education, teaching high school Agriculture in Butler, Georgia. He later
completed postgraduate studies at Tuskegee University.

In August 1972, John met Verna Evergin, and on March 3, 1973, they were united in
marriage. From this union came two beloved daughters. While living in Atlanta, John
worked as a state meat inspector for Georgia, all while raising his family, serving his
church, and supporting his community. After retiring in 1992, he devoted himself more
fully to the Lord through the Mighty Men of Zion Ministry and the Trustee Board. He
enjoyed gardening, reading National Geographic, listening to music, exploring history,
watching westerns, and faithfully attending Fort Valley State homecomings.

John will be remembered for his radiant smile, quick wit, and deep wisdom. His love for
knowledge and his ability to uplift others made him a treasure to family, friends, and all
who crossed his path.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert Lee Merritt and Blanche Merritt Frost;
aunts Bessie McCrae and Willie Mae McMillion; sisters Ruth L. Merritt-Smiley, Pearlene
Merritt, Betty Jean Merritt-Rooks, Jeanelle Smith, Maxine Suggs, and Brenda Merritt
Wilcox; and brothers George C. Merritt, Freddie McMillian, Edward Glenn Frost, and
Jack McMillion.

John leaves to cherish his memory: his loving and devoted wife of 52 years, Verna
Merritt of Atlanta, Georgia; daughters Rosalyn and Johnieda Merritt of Atlanta, Georgia;
brothers James Leon Merritt of Jacksonville, Florida, Bobbie McMillion (Valerie), Jimmy
McMillion (Martha), and Jerry McMillion (Darlene), all of Atlanta; sisters Patricia Wooten
of Alma, Ga and Joann Odom of Douglas, Ga ; along with a host of nieces, nephews,
cousins, in-laws, and friends.

Celebration of Life Saturday August 23, 2025

Zion Hill Baptist Church

6175 Campbellton Rd Atlanta Ga 30331 Burial; Georgia National Cemetery

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