Willis "Will" Carleton Merrill III, 67, of Pensacola, FL passed away peacefully on Wednesday, July 16, 2025.

Will was born on October 22, 1957, to Will and Jane Merrill in Jacksonville, NC, where his father was a pilot for the United States Marine Corp. Although active with his brothers in the real estate, construction, land development and The Great Southern Restaurant Group, it was his 40-year tenure at The Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park in Fort Walton Beach, FL which was his passion. Will's leadership as President/Chairman of the Board, a role entrusted to him by his grandfather and co-founder, Burney M. Henderson, The Gulfarium flourishes as a beloved destination for families, students, and marine enthusiasts alike. Will championed educational programs, conservation partnerships, and facility improvements that elevated the institution's role in marine rescue.

Will never met a stranger and loved everybody. Will was involved in many civic organizations and was a lifetime member of Christ Episcopal Church. However, it would be hard for any other group or organization to compete with the Alabama Alumni Association and Will's passion ­– borderline obsession with Alabama Football. There are very few who can claim to have watched a game in person with Will as that would change the outcome, and some might claim that to be neurotic behavior, Will claimed it to be just plain fact.

Will is survived by his mother, Jane Henderson Merrill; his brothers, Burney Henderson Merrill (Lisanne) and J. Collier Merrill; his nephew, J. Collier Merrill, Jr.; long-time companion, Jessica Campbell and numerous cousins throughout the South. Will also leaves behind a wide circle of friends and colleagues who have been touched by his kindness.

A Memorial Service will be held 2:00pm Wednesday, July 23, 2025, at Christ Episcopal Church, 18 West Wright Street, Pensacola, FL. The service will be officiated by The Rev. Dr. Michael Hoffman, assisted by the Rev. Katie Gillet. A reception will follow in the parish hall.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Will's memory to the Gulfarium C.A.R.E. Center, a nonprofit conservation-based organization located in Fort Walton Beach, FL, that specializes in sea turtle rescue, rehabilitation and release, that will help continue his mission to protect and preserve marine wildlife along the Gulf Coast. Donations can be made online or sent to 1010 Miracle Strip Parkway SE, Fort Walton Beach, FL 32548.