Obituary

Misti Dawn Merritt

August 28, 1978 - November 8, 2024

With great sadness, we announce the passing of Misti Dawn Merritt, age 46, who departed this earth to live on in the arms of her heavenly father on November 8th, 2024. Misti’s life was a beautiful testament to the power of love, friendship, and joy, and she will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her. Misti was born on August 28th, 1978, and spent her life bringing light and laughter to those around her. For many years, she was a cherished participant at the Activity Center in Franklinton, where she formed countless friendships with fellow participants and staff. Misti eagerly looked forward to her days at the center, and her love for her friends and the staff members was immeasurable. In turn, they loved her dearly. She never met a stranger and was known for her warm heart and ability to make everyone feel like family. Her presence was a gift. Whether she was sharing a smile, a laugh, or simply offering a hand to hold, Misti had a way of making people feel valued and loved. She radiated kindness, and her positive energy was contagious. Misti is now reunited with her beloved pup, Sweet Pea, who she adored, and together they will forever remain in the hearts of those who loved them.

Misti is survived by her loving parents, Donnell and Carla Graves Merritt. Her uncles and aunts: James (Betty) Merritt, Ray (Mavis) Merritt, Charles (Lenell) Merritt. Her aunts and uncles: Lisa Wayne, Ann Osborne, Sue Stogner, Joyce Magee, Judy Merritt, Donna (Bruce) Penton and Anita (Darrell) Magee. As well as, many cousins, who all adored her deeply.

She was preceded in death by her paternal grandparents: James (Jim) and Ruth Merritt, her uncle Ronnie Merritt, her maternal grandparents: Margie and Delton Graves, and her uncles Ronnie and Danny Graves who welcomed her into Heaven’s gates with open arms. Misti’s legacy of love, kindness, and laughter will live on in the hearts of her family, friends, and all who had the honor of knowing her.

A service to celebrate her life will be held at Crain Funeral Home. Visitation will be Wednesday November 13th from 5:00 pm until 9:00 pm and after 9:00 am on Thursday. A funeral service will be held in the funeral home chapel at 2:00 pm Thursday with Rev. Lynn Martin, Eld. Richard Magee and Eld. Willie Faye Rogers officiating. Burial will follow in the Pine Community Cemetery.

Pallbearers: David Merritt, Jim Merritt, John Stogner, Kevin Alford, Bruce Penton, John Robert Boone

Honorary Pallbearers are her friends with the Franklinton Association for Challenged Citizens.

Rest in peace, Misti. You will always be remembered for your beautiful soul, your boundless love, and the joy you brought to all who knew you.