James Jimmy Guthrie Merritt

James Guthrie Merritt Jimmy, 95, died on Saturday, January 10, 2009 at Autumn Care of Wilmington. He was preceded in death by his wife of 68 years, Margaret Fryar Merritt who he married on January 10, 1934 and his son, Harold Merritt. He is survived by his daughter, Doris Merritt Holland Ray of Wilmington, his sister Lucille Rooks of Watha, seven grandchildren; Rex Holland, Donna Holland Garner, Bill Holland, Greg Holland, Kaye Merritt, Kimberly Merritt and Jim Merritt, thirteen great grandchilden and seven soon to be 8 great-great grandchildren to whom he was lovingly know as ""Papa"". Over the years he owned and operated many local diners such as The Chic-Chic, one of Wilmington's first fast food drive-ins in the 1950's, The White Front Breakfast House, Merritt's Barbeque House, The Chow-Box and numerous others. After retiring from the restaurant business, he owned and operated Merritt's Pet Cemetery in Castle Hayne. He was a long time member of Lake Forest Baptist Church where his pockets were always full of candy and gum as he greeted at the front door. He was a strong but gentle man who loved his family, working in his garden and his Lord Jesus Christ. Visitation will be from 6 to 8 pm on Monday, January 12, 2009 at Andrews Mortuary Market Street Chapel. At other times the family will be at the home of his daughter. A memorial service will be held 1 pm Tuesday, January 13, 2009 at Andrews Mortuary Market Street Chapel followed by a graveside service at Greenlawn Memorial Park. The family wishes to express their gratitude to the entire staff of Autumn Care as well as Lower Cape Fear Hospice for their care and support. In lieu of flowers, please consider a memorial made to Lower Cape Fear Hospice.