James is survived by his wife of 54 years, Judy Merritt. His children, Larry King of Mountain Home, Darrelynn Smart (Lee) of Vilonia, Paulette Maness of Beebe, LaNaye Goshen (Karl) of Sherwood, Jimmy Merritt of Clarksville, and Stacy Matlock(Jesse) of Springdale. Fifteen grandchildren, Fifteen great grandchildren, and One great great grandchild and many nieces, nephews and friends.
James was born April 9, 1937 in Searcy, Arkansas. He is preceded in death by his parents Edward and Letha Merritt, and sister Frankie Phillips.
James was a retired LPTN from the Arkansas State Hospital and St. Vincent’s Infirmary. He also served in the US Army from 1960-1966. James was a member of Argenta United Methodist Church,and a member of the VFW 10442. James was an avid Razorback fan, he loved all sports, he enjoyed playing cards, shuffleboard, and dominos with his dear friends. He also enjoyed traveling and our family vacations together.
James will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who knew him.
Visitation will be held on Tuesday, August 4, 2020 from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Griffin Leggett Rest Hills, North Little Rock. Funeral services will begin at 1:00 p.m. in the funeral home with Will Choate officiating. Burial will follow in Rest Hills Memorial Park. Funeral services can be viewed on Facebook, by joining the livestream in the service information below.
The family would like to sincerely thank the wonderful staff at St. Vincent’s and Arkansas Hospice for the compassionate care they provided.
