Frederick Worth Merrill

Frederick Worth Merrill, beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, veteran, and friend, passed away surrounded by the legacy of love he helped create. A man of integrity, devotion, and quiet strength, Fred was deeply proud of his family and the life he built with his beloved wife, Leona Ruth “Lee” Merrill.

Fred was born on July 23, 1935, in Beaufort, North Carolina, to Ersil and David Brondale Merrill. He spent his early years in Beaufort alongside his three sisters, Annette Lawrence, Marilynn Weger, and Linda Merrill. At age 18, Fred joined the United States Air Force and began a distinguished military career that would span 26 years.

While stationed in Yuma, Arizona, Fred met the love of his life, Leona Ruth “Lee.” They married when Fred was 21 and Lee was 17, beginning a lifelong partnership rooted in love, commitment, perseverance, and family. Together, they built a remarkable legacy: three children, two sons-in-law, four grandchildren, three grandsons-in-law, and five great-grandchildren.

Family was Fred’s greatest source of pride. When everyone gathered together, he would often look at Lee and say, “Look at what we did, Lee.” Those words captured the gratitude and joy he felt for the family they had created together.

During his 26 years of service in the Air Force, Fred achieved significant milestones. He became one of the youngest Senior Master Sergeants in the Air Force and ultimately attained the rank of Chief Master Sergeant. His commitment to hard work and lifelong learning continued beyond his military duties. While serving and working, he dedicated many years to completing his Bachelor of Science degree, a goal that reflected how much he valued education and achievement.

Fred is survived by his wife, Leona Ruth “Lee” Merrill; his daughters, Vanda Davis and her husband, Joel Davis, and Piper Merrill; his grandchildren, Tia Camarena, Crystal DiBiaso, Zach Tougas, and Chantal Metcalf; his grandsons-in-law, Gilbert, TJ, and Joey; and his five great-grandchildren, Jacoby DiBiaso, Addison DiBiaso, Gavin Camarena, Vivian Camarena, and River Metcalf. Fred will join his oldest daughter, Desiree Merrill, in heaven.

Fred was not a perfect man, but he came pretty darn close. He was adored by his family and loved by the many friends he made throughout his life. He will be remembered for his integrity, his dedication to service, his love of learning, his pride in his family, and the steady love he gave to those fortunate enough to know him.

He will be sorely missed and forever loved.