Thomas Burton Merritt was born on May 11, 1934 and went to be with his Lord and Savior on April 12, 2025.
A Celebration of Life Service will be held at a later date.
Memorial contributions may be made to Stop Soldier Suicide P.O. BOX 670212 Dallas, TX 75267-0212.
Thomas graduated from Auburn University where he was part of the Naval ROTC program and track team. After finishing Auburn, he joined the Navy and completed his medical degree. While in the Navy, he served as a Naval aviator, and psychiatrist. During his 20 years with the Navy, he was awarded the National Defense Medal, the Naval Aviator Medal, and the Expert Medal for a .45 Caliber pistol. In 2008, he met the love of his life, Robbie (Honey) Merritt. They traveled the world together with stops in England, France, and Auburn where he watched his beloved Tigers. He was an avid rose gardener and won too many ribbons to count and a silver tray for his roses. His love for animals earned him the name of “Father Goose” for the geese and ducks he raised and released at Emerald Lake. We will miss Thomas for his warm smile, sense of humor, and adventuresome spirit.
He is preceded in death by his mother, Janet Merritt, father, Samual Merritt, and sister, Ella Merritt.
He is survived by his wife, Robbie Merritt, sister, Jane Myers, sons, Thomas Burton Merritt, Jr., John Merritt, and Samual Merritt, his stepchildren, Chuck Preston, Peppi Cooper (Jeff), step grandson, Jon Preston, and step granddaughters, Kortney Cooper (Scott Bukosky), Kasey Cooper, and Peyton Preston; cousins, Margaret Merritt, Fay Merritt, Deede James Scarborough, Becky D. Evans, John Duke; numerous nieces, nephews, and other cousins.
Glover Funeral Home has been entrusted with the arrangements. (334) 699-3888. Please sign the guestbook online at www.gloverfuneral.com
