Richard Erl Merrifield III

Richard Erl Merrifield III, 79, of Birmingham, Alabama was born June 21st, 1946. He passed away on September 27th, 2025 surrounded by his family.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Richard Erl Merrifield Jr and Francis McEwen Merrifield.

He is survived by his children. Katie Merrifield Kendrick, Kristen Merrifield Green (Phillip), and Richard Anthony Merrifield (Sarah); former wife and the mother of his children, Sherry Merrifield; and six grandchildren: Gavin Kendrick, Kaymen Kendrick, Karis Green, Lindlee Green, Aiden Merrifield and Piper Merrifield.

Richard will be remembered for his sharp wit, his quick temper, and his tireless dedication to the things he loved most. Many neighbors and friends recall his endless hours of work in the yard; a true masterpiece of his care, and the neighborhood kids quickly learned to steer their bicycles clear of his "work of art".

Our dad had the gift of grumbling, was easily annoyed, and could also crack a joke in an instant. He loved AM radio with Rush Limbaugh, Alabama football and tinkering with anything with a motor. He carried on a long history of prank calling with a style that would have made Roy D. Mercer proud. He was a proud father to all of his children, and always had stories to tell. Center Point ballpark days filled a lot of those memories, and will forever be special to our family.

He had a passion for motorcycles, cars, and the thrill of Barber Motorsports.

One of his greatest joys was riding to Hiwassee, Georgia. A yearly trip with his motorcycle buddies, a tradition that he loved.

He was a beloved member of the motorcycle community.

A proud member of the Dixie Classic Bike Club (OFMC) of Birmingham for over 30 years.

Richard was an avid motorcyclist, always stressed bike safety, and his attention to detail of motorcycle restoration was extraordinary.

He leaves behind a lifetime of stories, laughter, and mischief - the kind of legacy that will keep his family and friends smiling for years to come.

Above all, he was tough: a fighter in every sense of the word. Whether it was standing behind his children, sparring with umpires, or holding on through the hardest days of his illness, he showed us all what grit and determination look like. He leaves behind a legacy of strength, laughter, and love that will live on in everyone who knew him.

We would be honored if you would join us for a celebration of life on

Saturday, October 18th, 2025

Sherry's Cafe from 1-4pm

5800 Valley Road

Trussville, Alabama 35173.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to The Maggie Jenkins foundation.

https://www.maggiejenkins.org

Our family would like to express our deepest gratitude to Grandview Medical for the extraordinary care our dad received. To the medical professionals and to the 12th floor: Thank you. We love you all and your compassion will never be forgotten.