Charles Loyd Merritt

Charles Merritt, 97, of Marietta, Georgia, died on August 27, 2026. Born on April 16, 1929, in Lynch, Kentucky, he lived a long life marked by devotion to his family, dedicated work, and the simple pursuits he loved most.

Charles served in the United States Navy from January 1949 to January 1953 and held the rank of Petty Officer Third Class. Following his military service, he attended the University of Tennessee then worked for Koreen Southern Equipment. He then moved his family to Marietta and spent 28 years working at Lockheed as a Tool Engineer. He was known as the man who knew who to go to for help to get things done. A reflection of the respect he earned through experience and practical knowledge.

Charles was a kind, loving, and generous man. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather whose presence meant a great deal to those around him. He will be greatly missed. Outside of family, he loved airplanes, woodworking and NASCAR. He especially enjoyed working on cars in the backyard. He was loved in the neighborhood especially by the kids who needed their bikes fixed.

He is survived by his four children, Debbie (Henry), Barbara (Mark), Edmund (Sharon), and Tim (Nancy); six grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren; and his sister, Alice Keller.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Ellen-Jane Merritt, his grandson Ashton and by his brothers, Jack, Frank, Bill, and Bobby.

Charles Merritt will be remembered for his steady nature, his generosity, and the care he showed to his family and to others who knew him. His life was one of service, hard work, and lasting love.

Visitation will be held at Georgia Memorial Park Funeral Home & Cemetery, 2000 Cobb Pkwy SE, Marietta, GA 300603759, US, on September 12, 2026, from 12:00 pm to 2:00 pm, followed by the Chapel Funeral Service from 2:00 pm to 3:00 pm, and Committal from 3:00 pm to 3:30 pm at the same location.