William Lester Merritt Jr.

Born on January 8, 1957 in Ypsilanti, Michigan, Bill lived a life defined by honor, hard work, love and bravery. Through his jokes, goofiness and sarcasm, he offered so much wisdom, protection, strength and courage. He left an everlasting impression on anyone who knew him.

He found joy in fishing, grilling, making chili, and welding. He also enjoyed spending time with his kids and grandchildren. He and his wife often went out to dinner at one of his favorite restaurants, Texas Roadhouse.

Bill was a lifelong welder and pipefitter who loved his work. His work friends were like brothers and sons to him and he held them in high regard.

Bill was preceded in death by his father, William Lester Merritt, Sr., his sister Terri Jean Carter, and his mother Mary Frances Davenport Merritt.

Bill is survived by his wife, Tammy, of Land O’ Lakes; his daughters, Katie Baxter (Bill) of Rome, Georgia, and Kayla Starr (Josh) of Spring Hill; his son, Justin Northcutt (JoAnna) of Spring Hill; his grandsons, Grayson Starr, and Jase and Hunter Northcutt, all of Spring Hill; his sister, Susie Worrell (Gary) of Lafayette, Tennessee; and his brothers, Mark (Kim) of Lafayette, Tennessee, and Aubrey (Tammy) of Hendersonville, Tennessee and Mark (Kim) of Lafayette, TN.

Although our hearts are heavy with grief, the legacy of Wild Bill will forever live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him. Together, we can find comfort in the memories he had given us or that we’ve shared with him.

A celebration of life will be held on a date and time that is to be determined at Florida Hills Memorial Gardens. Please bring a chair as seating is limited. Cards are appreciated in lieu of flowers.

Forever loved, deeply missed but never forgotten.