Billy Merritt

Billy Joe Merritt, 84, of Waco passed away on Saturday, December 11, 2010 at a local care center. Graveside services will be 1pm Monday at Rosemound with the Rev. Jim Gray officiating. Visitation will be from 5-7pm on Sunday at OakCrest Funeral Home, 4520 Bosque Blvd.

Billy was born on November 16, 1926 in Axtell to Fred and Lena (Robertson) Merritt. He married the love of his life, Juanita Crosby on June 18, 1949 in Waco. They spent 61 wonderful years together. Billy loved to hunt and fish and participated in many cook offs. Billy was a member of Emmanuel Baptist Church and VFW Post 2148. He was a WWII Veteran and served in the Pacific Theater. He was preceded in death by his parents, sister, Beulah Mae Moton; brothers, Floyd, Donald, Royce and Robert Merritt; and daughter, Donna Jo Roberson.

Billy is survived by his wife, Juanita Merritt of Waco; daughter, Regina Short of Hewitt; sons, Bobby Merritt and wife, Rosemary of Robinson and Kenneth Merritt of Waco; son-in-law, Robert Roberson of Oklahoma City, Ok; granddaughter, Amanda Merritt; grandsons, Bryan and Brett Roberson, Shawn and Joseph Short, Ryan and Brent Merritt, five great-grandchildren; and many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.