Roland Merrill McPhearson Jr. of Dauphin Island, Alabama passed away May 11, 2019 from complications of ALS. Merrill was born February 20, 1941 to Francis “Boots” and Roland “Mac”, raised in Birmingham and spent most of his professional life serving the United States Public Health Service in the capacity of seafood safety scientist as a commissioned officer. Merrill was preceded in death by his parents and brother Richard. He is survived by his wife of 45 years Jo; brother Walter, sister Laurel; children Carrie, Allen, Roland (Box), and Sallie; and eight grandchildren. Dr. McPhearson received post graduate degrees from the University of Alabama and Tulane University and for a time commuted from Mobile to New Orleans serving as professor of biology. Upon retirement as Captain he received an Honorary Scientist Emeritus designation from the USPHS in order to facilitate his continued service. His earliest service was as a conscript in the US Army during the Vietnam War. A voracious reader, he accrued an in-depth knowledge of a wide range of subjects- from sailing to the canon of Sherlock Holmes. During his retirement years he enjoyed all aspects of the game of golf. But he enjoyed his grandchildren even more. Merrill will be remembered and revered by many for his intellect, larger than life smile, sense of humor, and despite the many professional accomplishments, for his humility. A service honoring his memory will be announced at a later date. Condolences for the family may be mailed to P.O. BOX 1 Dauphin Island, AL 36528.
