Raymond Harry Merritt, 70, of Pensacola, FL passed away on Thursday, February 24, 2022, from complications associated with pneumonia.

Ray was born on June 14, 1951, in Pensacola, FL. He grew up in East Pensacola Heights on Bayou Texar. Ray graduated from Pensacola High School in 1969. After high school, Ray went on to work a variety of jobs but namely as the superintendent of Classic Homebuilders for 15 years before retiring.

Ray loved all things outdoors. He was always happy to share a story or two of his time out on the water or in the depths of the woods. Ray never once in his life met a stranger. He made friends wherever he went. He could talk to a brick wall and it would probably talk back to him. If you've met Ray, you probably walked away from the conversation with his phone number and a nickname that he would call you every chance he got. He was a kind, loving, patriotic man who would help anyone in a time of need. Ray served in his church at every opportunity, whether it be teaching Sunday school or stuccoing church walls. He loved music, especially Classic Rock and could be found most nights singing Crosby Stills Nash and Young while standing over the grill. Ray valued spending time with his loved ones above anything else.

Ray is preceded in death by his parents, Fuzzy and Jane Merritt; his siblings, Anne Van Asperan, Richard Dykes, and Mickey Courtney; and lifelong friend, Rick Jaber.

He is survived by his beautiful wife, DeAnna Wade Merritt; his children, Kris Merritt (Rie), Maggie Talford (Rick), Melanie Merritt (Jaxon), Avia Kelley, Dakota Merritt (Christina), and Baylee Merritt; his grandchildren, Coby, Noah, Mikayla, Benny, Alice, Xavier, and Stephanie; his siblings, Julie Taylor (Jim), Libba Dykes, and Lamar Wade (Crystal); in-laws, David and Peggy; as well as his precious pups, Bane and Robin.

A Celebration of Life will be held 2:00pm Saturday, March 19, 2022, at Beulah Church, 7561 Mobile Hwy., Pensacola, FL. Family will greet visitors following the service.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions be made to Save the Children.

The family would like to thank the staff at Select Specialty Hospital, Beulah Church, and friends of the family for their constant support in this trying time.

Big Ray was a very loved man who will be sorely missed by many.