Kenya A. Merritt

Kenya Ajene’ Merritt beloved husband, father, son, and friend passed away on October 30, 2024, at the age of 48. Kenya was born on February 22, 1976, in Brooklyn, NY to parents Stephen and Kim Merritt. To him, New York and New Jersey were both considered home as he spent a significant amount of time with family and friends in both places.

Kenya was a disciplined and talented athlete. He was a fierce competitor, full of passion, determination and a relentless drive that caused him to receive accolades and statewide recognition as a basketball player for St. Peters High School in New Brunswick, NJ. His dedication and work ethic earned him a full scholarship to play Division 1 basketball at the University of Maryland Baltimore County. While there, Kenya received a Bachelor of Science degree in Information Systems.

In 2000, Kenya met the love of his life, Stephanie, in Baltimore, MD. They married on June 2, 2007, at an intimate ceremony full of love and joy. From their union, three magnificent children were born who represent the best parts of both: Keagen Merritt, Karsen Merritt, and Austyn Merritt.

Kenya’s life work was advocating and helping people. He became a Special Agent with the Federal Bureau of Investigations in 2006 and continued that work until his death. Kenya had the opportunity to work across several FBI offices in our country and the world. His deepest passion was helping victims of human trafficking, child sex trafficking, as well as crimes against children. He received several accolades and high honors for his work with the FBI including the United States Attorney’s Office award.

Kenya truly embodied the principle that “iron sharpens iron,” continually encouraging and strengthening those around him. He believed deeply in being his brother's keeper. His favorite scriptures from the book of James illuminated his path, guiding him with wisdom and bolstering his faith. James Chapter 1 verse 12 states: “Blessed is the one who endures trials because when he who has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love Him” and this strengthened Kenya during his times of trial.

Kenya’s impact on the world is palpable. His legacy of love, integrity, and resilience will live on through all who were directly and indirectly touched by him. One of his favorite sayings was “go be great.” He embodied this quote for all to see every day of his life as he inspired those around him to push their own limits and strive for excellence.

Kenya was preceded in death by his father, Stephen, and his beloved grandmother, Marion “Nanny”. He leaves to mourn his loving wife, Stephanie, and their three children, Keagen, Karsen, and Austyn, his mother, Kim, his siblings, Stephen (Khalid), Kali (Khadijah), Kenneth, and Jasmin, and a wonderful host of family and friends.

A lie-in-state for Kenya will be held Friday, November 15, 2024 from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM at Brookside Funeral Home, 13747 Eastex Freeway, Houston, Texas 77039. A visitation will occur Friday, November 15, 2024 from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM, 13747 Eastex Freeway, Houston, Texas 77039. A viewing will occur Saturday, November 16, 2024 from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Church Project, 602 Pruitt Rd, The Woodlands, TX 77380. A home-going celebration will occur Saturday, November 16, 2024 from 12:00 PM to 1:30 PM at Church Project, 602 Pruitt Rd, The Woodlands, TX 77380. A committal service will occur Saturday, November 16, 2024 from 2:00 PM to 2:30 PM at Forest Park The Woodlands Cemetery, 18000 Interstate 45 S, The Woodlands, TX 77384. A repass will occur Saturday, November 16, 2024 from 2:30 PM to 4:30 PM at Church Project, 602 Pruitt Rd, The Woodlands, TX 77380.

Serving as pallbearers are Kevin Carter, Shawn Diggs, Marcus Wilson, Torrence White, Frank Turner, Erick Evans, Ramone Lloyd and Hong Nguyen Jr.