Zora R. Merritt

On May 28, 2026, Zora Evelyn Russum Merritt was called home to be with her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ at the age of 98. Friends and family are invited to join in a celebration of life to be held at Lakewood Funeral Home, 6011 Clinton Blvd, Jackson, MS 39209, on June 1, 2026. Visitation will be from 12:30 pm to 1:30 pm, followed by services at Lakewood Funeral Home at 1:30 pm. Zora’s final resting place is beside her husband, Bobby Merritt Sr. at Lakewood Memorial Park, 6000 Clinton Blvd., Jackson.

Born on August 29, 1927, in Lemon, MS, Zora was the daughter of the late Charles Floyd Russum Sr. and Deana Eady Russum. Zora’s Mother went to be with the Lord while Zora was a young girl. At the time of Mrs. Deana’s illness, she asked Zora to promise to be a “good girl”. Zora lived a life filled with grace, love and unwavering faith, always honoring her promise to be a good girl.

Zora shared her life with her true love, Bobby and their two children, Bobby Jr. “Stan” and Stacey. After a brief career at General Electric, she became a loving and devoted homemaker. Zora raised her children and grandchildren with the Loyalty and Steadfast Love of Ruth, Humility and Grace of Mary, and Courage and Boldness of Miriam.

Zora’s hobbies included gardening and shopping. Although her favorite flower was the gerbera daisy, she was known for rescuing plants from the discount rack and giving them their best life. Zora enjoyed her shoes, clothes, and jewelry. Her advice to other women was to “do it for you”. In other words, dress beautifully so you feel beautiful. She Loved Life! “Delight yourself in the Lord; and He will give you the desires of your heart.” Psalm 37:4

Zora is preceded in death by her loving husband, their son and daughter and grandson, Fletcher Hester. Zora is survived by her nephew, Charlie (Tess) Russum, nieces Jo (Jerry) Williams, and Cheryle Bridges. Granddaughter Natalie Merritt (Eric) Vandersteen, and Grandsons, Bobby (Emma) Merritt and Thomas (Samantha) Hester. Zora’s legacy of faith and love will be carried on through an extensive number of friends and family. To know Zora was to Love her! While we grieve Zora’s passing, we find comfort in knowing we will one day be reunited in God’s eternal kingdom. “In my Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.” John 14:2-3