Russell K. Merrin

Russell K. Merrin, age 74, passed into eternity with the Lord Jesus Christ on December 29, 2022, due to heart failure. He heroically fought chronic myeloid leukemia since 1999. Russell was born in Fredericktown, OH, to Richard Merrin and Charlotte Diehl. He is survived by his wife, Norma Buckles, of forty-three years; and his daughter, Monica Vernot (spouse - James Vernot); and son, Derek Merrin; his brother, Keith Merrin (spouse Sue); and sister, Sonya Martin (spouse Jerry). His grandchildren, Gideon, Matthew and Molly Vernot were treasures to him. He loved his nieces and nephews dearly. He graduated from Capital University in Ohio and completed a Masters of Divinity at Liberty Baptist Seminary.

Russell gave testimony that his life changes at 24, when he repented of his sin, and by faith, trusted Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord. He passionately shared the Gospel of Christ with people of all walks of life. He pastored Monclova Road Baptist Church in Monclova, OH for 23 years. He and his wife founded Monclova Christian Academy in 1999. Additionally, Pastor Merrin founded a church in Long Island, NY and Columbus, OH. His TV and radio ministries reached countless people with the Gospel and sound Biblical teaching.

He loved his country and was a defender of freedom. Russell was a loving husband and devoted father to his children. He was known for his generosity, kindness, and mercy to those he encountered. His humor was enjoyed by all who knew him. Russell Merrin will be remembered as a soldier for Jesus Christ who will never be forgotten by his family and those he pastored. His last request to all was "be ready; for in such an hour as ye think not the Son of man cometh."

A Memorial viewing and funeral will be held at Redemption Church, located at 8605 Salisbury Road, Monclova, OH 43542. The viewing will be on Friday, January 6, 2023 from 4:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. The Celebration Service will follow on Saturday, January 7, 2023 at 10:00 a.m. Flowers can be sent to Newcomer Funeral Home 4752 Heatherdowns Blvd., Toledo, OH 43614. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Gideons.org/donate

To leave a special message for Pastor Merrin's family please visit:

www.NewcomerToledo.com

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

Published by The Blade on Jan. 1, 2023.

Memories and Condolences
for Russell Merrin

Sponsored by Newcomer Funeral Home - Southwest Toledo Chapel.

13 Entries

Billy Shaw

February 17, 2023

Pastor Merrin was a wonderful man of God. It was my joy to minister as a guest musician in his church in the early 2000s. Because of the joy of the Lord, he was able to have a sense of humor even through the dark valley of leukemia. It is fitting that his obituary testifies to the Gospel of Christ, which message Pastor Merrin championed every day of his ministry for the Lord. He set a fine example for all of us. May his family know of our prayers for them.

Tejal Ali

Planted Trees

Scott Buckles

January 5, 2023

My brother-in-law and brother in Christ! He never knew a stranger and was always so welcoming when we could visit! Loved sports, especially when coaching basketball. I remember Russ visiting us in Charlotte and trying to water ski. (This was many years ago) and if you know how tall and lanky he was, it was a sight to behold!!! He would always ask about our family how the kids were doing when we would visit. Your concern and friendliness will truly be missed!

Pamela Boratyn

January 4, 2023

Derek and family, may you always be comforted by your memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived. Pam & Martin Boratyn

The Ohio Chamber of Commerce

Sent Flowers

Melissa

January 3, 2023

What an amazing follower , teacher and preacher for and of God. What an example of Jesus' love too the children and adults.

Myron Stewart

January 3, 2023

I did not know Pastor Merrin, but I did on time to time listen to his broadcast. Condolences to his family at this time of bereavement.

Ron and Irene Graef

January 2, 2023

Heaven has just opened to receive one of God´s cherished soldiers who served faithfully without immediate reward. He fought the good fight and the King has laid up for him a crown of righteousness.

Pamela & Martin Boratyn

Planted Trees

Paul Wilson

January 1, 2023

Heaven gained a truly good soul! Pastor Merrin will surely be missed! We dearly love him and his lovely wife ! He was the best Pastor you could have. Our prayers are with Norma and the rest of the family.

Jill M Keeton

December 31, 2022

Norma ,Monica, drek I am so sorry for your loss Jill keeton

Jill M Keeton

December 31, 2022

Norma Monica drek I am so sorry for your loss Jill keeton

Eileen Kassebaum Dougherty

December 31, 2022

Pastor Merrin´s ministry was one of the best things to happen on Long Island, NY!! His love for God and people was evident daily. He served God tirelessly in our communities, building the family of God. I thank God for this man, saving me and other loved ones. Praise God! My condolences to Norma and family.

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