Greg Alvin Merritt

The family of Mr. Greg Alvin Merritt invites friends and loved ones from the Meridian area to join in a gathering of remembrance at the home of Mrs. Jean R. Merritt on Thursday, February 19, 2026, from 4:00 until 6:00 p.m. A blessing of peace will be offered by Pastor Cory Phillips of Covenant Global Methodist Church.

Greg Merritt, age 72, of Tampa, Florida, passed away at Tampa General Hospital on Saturday, February 7, 2026, after bravely facing a long battle with AML, amyloidosis, and polycythemia vera.

Born on March 31, 1953, in Meridian, Mississippi, Greg was a cherished son of George and Jean Merritt. He graduated from Marion Military Institute in Alabama and further pursued his education at Meridian Community College and The University of Mississippi, where he thrived as an active member of Alpha Tau Omega and earned a business degree.

A true lover of the sea, Greg was an avid sailor who found joy in spending precious moments on the water with his beloved wife, Dawn, and their dear son, Chad. Together, they created lasting memories with friends at the Yacht Club on Davis Island. Greg was also a devoted member of the Rough Riders, a dedicated volunteer organization that touched the lives of many.

He is survived by his wife, Dawn Merritt; his son, Chad Merritt; his mother, Jean Carol Rosenbaum Merritt; his sister, Jeana Merritt Bennet (Bo); his brother-in-law, Rick Barry; as well as nieces, nephews, great nieces, and great nephews. 

He was preceded in death by his father, George Durrant Merritt; his sister, Cheri Barry; and his cherished grandparents, Alvin and Bonnie Rosenbaum, and Charles and Florrie Press.

In honor of Greg's legacy, the family encourages those wishing to remember him, or do something kind for his mother, Jean, to consider a donation to the Bell of Hope Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to providing comfort and support to cancer patients. Contributions may be sent to Bell of Hope, c/o Jeana Bennett, P.O. Box 3786, Meridian, MS 39303.

The Merritt family extends their heartfelt gratitude for the love and support received during this time as they navigate their grief and continue to seek the path of God’s love and grace. In the comforting words of Psalm 46:10, “be still and know.”