Jackie Merritt

Mr. Jackie Merritt, age 75 of Willacoochee, Ga. passed away Monday, April 3, 2017 at Coffee Regional Medical Center in Douglas, Ga. following an extended illness.   A native of Willacoochee, Ga., Mr. Merritt was born October 20, l941, son of H. L. and Irma Rowland Merritt. He worked at McCranie Brothers for many years and later for the City of Willacoochee before retiring. He enjoyed watching Nascar and in his younger years enjoyed fishing.   Mr. Jackie Merritt’s survivors include:   Wife: Helen Hunkapiller Merritt of Willacoochee, Ga. 2 Daughters: Debra Merritt of Willacoochee, Ga.                         Rhonda Hall of Willacoochee, Ga. 2 Sisters: Laverne Merritt of Willacoochee, Ga.                 Barbara Flowers of Douglas, Ga. 4 Grandchildren: Brandon Hall, Brook Hall, Ryan Curtis, and Kayla Roe 3 Great Grandchildren: Layton Forsythe, Hanli Forsythe and Adler Forsythe Several nieces, nephews and other relatives also survive.   Funeral services for Mr. Merritt were held at 3:00 P. M. Thursday, April 6, 2017 at The First Baptist Church in Willacoochee, Ga. with Rev. Bill Huffstuttler and Rev. Russell Joiner officiating. Special music included “Amazing Grace” rendered by the attending congregation with Bonnie Kunberger accompanying at the piano and “Will the Circle be Unbroken” rendered by Alisha Forsythe who accompanied herself on the piano. Soft music for the Prelude and the Postlude was played by Bonnie Kunberger pianist. The interment followed in the Willacoochee City Cemetery.   Serving as active pallbearers were: Kevin Steverson, Steve Scott, Benny Hall, Jim McCranie, Johnathan Forsythe, and Jason Hunkapiller.     Relihan Funeral Home of Pearson, Ga. was in charge of the arrangements.