Bonnie Lou Merritt

January 21, 1938 – April 22, 2026

Bonnie Lou Russell Merritt passed away peacefully on April 22, 2026, surrounded by family, following a short, brutal fight with Parkinson’s. Born in Chillicothe, Missouri, January 21, 1938, her childhood was marked by tragedy, but she did not let the early losses define her. She will always be remembered as a warm giver of hugs, a soft place to land and a steadfast encourager for the Lord.

As a young adult, Bonnie moved to California, where she soon met and married her husband of 62 years, Joseph A. Merritt. After several moves, they ultimately settled in Yulee, Florida, where she raised three children and built a vibrant, fulfilling life. She was deeply involved in her community and her church; though she did not find Jesus until adulthood, she pursued her faith with total devotion. She never missed an opportunity to serve, mentored many women and never grew tired of studying Scripture.

In her later years, Bonnie moved to the Birmingham area, where she resided in Mt. Olive, Alabama, and became an active member of Redeemer Presbyterian Church in Gardendale.

Of all the roles Bonnie held, her time as "Grandma" and "GG" was her favorite. She loved nothing more than family gatherings. She loved a family reunion—especially those at the beach, which were usually filled with a houseful of "girls" just gabbing. She truly shone during holidays and family dinners, always providing plenty of sweets and her legendary oyster dressing. She was a gifted baker who easily shared that passion, whether she was teaching her granddaughters and great-granddaughters how to make tricky desserts or hosting fancy tea parties.

Bonnie is preceded in death by her parents, Emily and Edgar Russell; her husband, Joseph; her son, Greg; and her grandsons, Josh, Ben, and Jimmie. She is survived by her son, Michael Merritt (Betty); her daughter, Michelle Shelton (Wayne); six grandchildren; and at least 13 great-grandchildren.

A service will be held at Redeemer Presbyterian in Gardendale, 977 Sardis Road, Gardendale, AL 35071, on Saturday, May 2, 2026 at 11 am.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that you consider a donation to the mission fund at Redeemer Presbyterian Church. Donations may be mailed to: Redeemer Presbyterian Church – Mission Fund PO Box 160, Gardendale, AL 35071