Jerry Austin Merritt, 76, of Chapmanville, WV, departed this life on Monday, July 28, 2025, at Dignity Assisted Living in Chapmanville, WV.

He was born on December 23, 1948, in Huntington, WV, a son of the late Junior and Ilva Asbury Merritt.

Jerry spent his career in law enforcement having started with the F.B.I. and later on with SLED, South Carolina Law Enforcement Department, retiring after more than 30 years of service. When he wasn’t working, his time was spent bass fishing on Lake Murray and many other places. Jerry surrendered his life to Christ on Mother’s Day 2020 and loved listening to the 20 Whitman Community Church livestream services with Pastor Joaquine Ooten.

Those left to cherish his memory are three daughters, Erin Merritt of Maryland, Virginia Hollingsworth of Irmo, SC, and Emily Merritt of Chapin, SC; two sisters, Brenda Merritt Hainer of Chapmanville, WV, and Debbie Merritt Kersey of Myrtle Beach, SC; one brother, Gregory Merritt of Chapmanville, WV; three nephews, Jamie Hainer of Chapmanville, WV, Shane Merritt of Logan, WV, and Connor Kersey of Myrtle Beach, SC; and two nieces, Tara Graul of Alexandria, KY, and Carly Kersey of Myrtle Beach, SC. Additionally, Jerry leaves behind many extended family members and countless friends.

The family would like to thank the staff and caregivers of Dignity Assisted Living for taking care of Jerry during his tenure there. A special thank you to Rachel Woody Vance for going above and beyond, and also to Jonny Ramey for her time of help.

Funeral services will be conducted at 1:00 P.M. on Thursday, July 31, 2025, at Evans Funeral Home & Cremation Services at Chapmanville, WV, with Pastor Joaquine Ooten officiating.

Burial will follow in Forest Lawn Cemetery at Pecks Mill, WV. Family and friends will serve as pallbearers.

Visitation will be held from 11:30 A.M. to 1:00 P.M. Thursday, July 31, 2025, at Evans Funeral Home & Cremation Services.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Evans Funeral Home & Cremation Services at Chapmanville, WV.