Frances "Fran" Vaughan Merritt

Frances was born in Petersburg, Virginia to the late Ester Elizabeth MaGee and Emmet Stanley Vaughan. She loved being from a big family in Virginia. She married her first husband and moved to Florida and Texas before settling in Georgia to raise their two children. She married Lanier Merritt in 1983 and moved to Columbus, GA. They would move to Phenix City to retire.

Frances loved attending annual family reunions in Virginia. She also loved being in Apalachicola, FL in her free time.

Frances was a faithful Christian woman who attended First Baptist Church of Columbus. She loved serving people through Meals on Wheels.

She also loved her pets, especially her beloved dog, Poo.

Frances was preceded in death by her first husband, Larry Reece, her daughter, Beth Merritt and her parents.

Frances is survived by her husband Lanier Merritt. She is also survived by her children Paul Reece, Kellyn and Larry Barnes, Jack and Carey Merritt, Ernie and Stephanie Merritt. She also leaves behind 6 grandchildren and 4 great grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to a Hospice or Humane Society of your choice.

A graveside service will be held in her honor at Arlington Memorial Park, located at 201 Mt Vernon Hwy NW, Sandy Springs, Georgia, 30328. The service is scheduled for February 18, 2026, starting at 12:00 pm.