Phillip Nelson Merritt was born on March 11, 1949, in Detroit Michigan, and went home to be with the Lord on October 08, 2024. He was preceded in death by his beloved parents, Marvin Roger Merritt Sr, Fannie Belle Moore, (stepmother) Bonita Hayes Merritt, (brothers) Marvin Merritt Jr and Lawrence Merritt.
Phillip graduated from Inkster High School in 1967. He went on to further his education at Central State University in Wilberforce, Ohio where he obtained his BA, specializing in Marketing and Finance. Throughout his career, he aimed to leverage his acquired skills and knowledge to benefit his community. Phillip served as the President and Director of APS Child Development Center. His responsibilities were to ensure the health, safety, quality and education for all children; until his retirement in 2012. Upon his retirement, he continued serving his community through direct transportation services and promoting healthy living products via his online business.
Phillip gave his life to the Lord in his late 20's. After joining Agape Christian Ministries under the leadership of Bishop L.A. Wilkerson., he was healed and made whole through the teaching of God's Word. He began reading his Bible daily and he had a strong belief in God's promises for his life; he prayed without ceasing. He was also known for his impeccable style. His suits, hats and shoes spoke volumes of the person that he was. When he walked in a room, his sense of style commanded attention. He believed that a man should always dress his best for any occasion.
In January 2015, Phillip went on his first date with T’Wanna Cecilia Lloyd at Red Robin’s, soon realizing she was the love of his life. They courted until he proposed during a church cruise in 2019 and subsequently married on December 6, 2019.
Phillip is survived by his wife T’Wanna Merritt, (bonus son) Jelani Lloyd, his brother Gordon Kent Merritt (Debbie) from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, his sister Anita Marlene Harris from Charlotte, North Carolina, along with several nieces, nephews, great-nieces and a host of friends.
