Shirley Lindsey Merritt

Mr. Shirley Lindsey Merritt, 85, passed away on July 30, 2024, in Lynchburg, VA. He was born in Stokes Co. on December 30, 1938, the son of the late Walter and Bessie Priddy Merritt. Mr. Merritt was of Christian Faith and grew up on a farm, where he learned a love of the land and animals. He loved dogs, cats, horses and cattle. He also spent quite a bit of time playing his guitar and singing. Mr. Merritt had a particular love for country and gospel music. He worked in plumbing with his brothers and then for himself. He retired as a truck driver, driving for several different companies. Mr. Merritt served his country proudly in the United States Army. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a grandson, Timothy “Andrew” Merritt; his sisters, Grace Everhart, Mozelle Stewart and Ina Aldridge; and his brothers, Hubert, Harvey, Fred, Herbert and Dennis Merritt. He is survived by a son, Tim R. Merritt (Pam); a daughter, Julie M. Benson (Kelly); four grandchildren, Hannah M. Creed (Patrick), Timothy “Luke” Merritt (Autumn), Brett B. Bennett (Alex) and Orry L. Benson (Laken); five great-grandchildren, Cade Creed, Emma Creed, Jameson Bennett, Grady Bennett and Lorelynn Benson; and numerous nieces, nephews and extended family. A memorial service will be conducted at 3:00 p.m. Tuesday, September 17, 2024, at Poplar Springs Christian Church with Pastor Griffin Gilstrap officiating. Burial with Military Honors will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends from 2:00-3:00 prior to the service at Poplar Springs Christian Church. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to: Poplar Springs Christian Church “Cemetery Fund”, 7120 Hwy 66 South, King, NC 27021 or American Legion Post #290 of King, 436 S. Main St. King, NC 27021.