Cynthia Andrus Merritt

Cynthia Merritt, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away on July 27, 2025, at Kaiser Hospital after bravely battling an illness. She was 77 years old.

Born on October 7, 1947, in Alameda, California, to Robert and Elizabeth Andrus, Cynthia grew up with a joyful spirit and a gift for connection that would define her life. On August 16, 1969, she married the love of her life, Richard Merritt IV.

Shortly after, the couple moved to Fresno, where they built a life, a community of dear friends, raised a family, and shared more than five decades of love and adventure. Cynthia enjoyed a long and fulfilling career as a travel agent, a profession that reflected her passion for experiencing new places, fine dining, and exploration. Over the years, she and Richard traveled the world together, often joined by their children, Jennifer Merritt and Richard Merritt V. Later, she cherished traveling with her grandsons, Richard VI and Matthew Merritt, as well as with dear friends and extended family. Her greatest joy in life was her role as “Nana.” Cynthia held a special place in the lives of her grandsons, and the bond they shared brought her endless happiness. She was also a beloved presence in the lives of many others—never meeting a stranger and always leaving behind warmth, laughter, and kindness. Her welcoming smile, cheerful disposition, and genuine spirit endeared her to all who knew her.

Cynthia is survived by her devoted husband of 56 years, Richard IV; her children, Jennifer Merritt and Richard Merritt V, along with his wife Shannon; her grandsons, Richard VI and his wife Morgan, and Matthew. Cynthia is also survived by her eldest sister, Barbara and husband Duane, as well as many cherished nieces and nephews — children of Barbara and their late sister, Gail. There’s a wide circle of family and friends who will forever treasure her memory.

A celebration of Cynthia’s life will be held on Tuesday, October 7, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at New Hope Community Church, 4620 Nees Avenue, Clovis, California 93611.

Her legacy of love, joy, and adventure will live on in the hearts of those she touched.