Jerry L. Merritt Obituary (1936 - 2012)

Jerry L. Merritt, 76, of Pana, Illinois, died Sunday, June 24, 2012 at his home. He was born August 31, 1936 in Alva,KY, the son of John Effie (Ramsey) Merritt. He graduated and served in the U. S. Air Force. Jerry lived most of his life in Pana. He retired in 1994 from Caterpillar as a toolmaker. He was a member of the Baptist Faith and NRA. His hobbies included gunsmithing, fishing and cattle farming. He married Mary Nantkes in Corinth, MS in 1956. He is survived by his wife: Mary Merritt, of Pana, IL; children: Douglas Merritt, Pana, IL, Joseph (Serena) Merritt, Pana, IL, Cheryl (Dale) Culley, West Frankfort, IL, Laura Merritt, Pana, IL, Jerry Merritt, Pana, IL, Eric (Companion Jennifer Beck) Merritt, Herrick; IL, 7 grandchildren: April England, John, Bradley, Tyler, Justin, Joe Jr., Katie Merritt; 5 great grandchildren: Lindsey Kailey Williams, Mason England, Bradley Merritt Jr., Lily Merritt; sister: Pat Hewitt, Harrisburg, IL; and nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by: 2 brothers in infancy. Funeral Information Funeral services will held Thursday, June 28, 2012 in McCracken-Dean Funeral Home at 11:00 a.m. Burial will be Linwood Cemetery. Visitation will be from 9:00 a.m. until time of service.