Joseph (Joe) Feagin Merrill

Glover Funeral Home of Dothan

Viewed: 979

Posted by: Glover Funeral Home
[email protected]
334-699-3888
Date: Jul 30 2023 4:50 PM

Joseph Feagin Merrill, age 81, died peacefully at home Saturday, July 29th surrounded by family following a short but hard-fought battle with cancer.

Born and raised in Dozier, Alabama, Joe was a proud Army veteran and the youngest of six children of W.A. and Clara M. Merrill. Following his military service, Joe ventured into the beer business and became the owner of Falstaff Distributing Company. A decade later, Joe retired at the youthful age of thirty-six and spent early retirement driving the countryside in one of the automobiles or motorcycles amassing from his impressive collection. Joe could not stay retired long and found himself later employed by the US Postal Service where he remained for twenty-plus years, eventually enjoying a well-deserved second retirement.

Joe is survived by his wife of 42 years and love of his life Peggy White Merrill, two beloved daughters, and sons-in-law, Kimm McMichael Creel (Steve) of Dothan, AL, Kara McMichael Harner (Mike) of Atlanta, GA, three adored grandchildren Ryan (Los Angeles, CA), Jack (Atlanta, GA), Will (Atlanta, GA), and several beloved nieces and nephews.

Joe loved traveling with Peggy in their younger years but found their happy place just down the highway at their Florida beach home where they enjoyed most weekends. Joe was passionate about all things business, entrepreneurial, and loved following the stock market. His most joyful moments though were following his grandson’s activities and achievements. He was incredibly proud and bragged to anyone that would listen. In his last weeks, Joe could be found on FaceTime with the boys still attempting a joke despite his inability to speak above a whisper.

Joe admired a humble man, strong work ethic and discipline and always rooted for the underdog. He was a private man, carried a big heart, and quietly helped many. Among those preceding him in death are his beloved parents, five older siblings, and his favorite four-legged friend, Raider. Peggy and the girls express sincere gratitude to all of the family, friends, and co-workers who have supported them in recent weeks.

Special gratitude to Dr. Mark Byard and the team at First Choice Hospice, specifically Brytni, Shulunda, and Amanda. For the twenty-four-hour home care in the last days, Elizabeth Snellgrove, and team specifically Twanna and Cassie - all of whom are angels among us.

To the phenomenal physicians of which we are so grateful: Dr. Hejal Patel and the GenesisCare team; Dr. Marvin Sexton and team; Dr. John Dunn and team, Dr. Tim Gannon, Dr. Chris Robinson, and Dr. Allen Latimer.

The family will receive friends on Tuesday, August 1, 2023, from 5-7 p.m. in the Glover Funeral Home parlor. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to First Choice Hospice, a service group close to the family’s heart, 966 North Claxton Avenue, Elba 36323.

Glover Funeral Home has been entrusted with the arrangements. Please sign the guestbook online at www.gloverfuneral.com. 334-699-3888

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