John Dee Merrill, Jr.

Merrill, John Dee Jr., age 69, of Fenton, died Tuesday, January 9, 2007 in Orange Beach, Alabama. Funeral services will be held 3PM Saturday, January 13, 2007 Sharp Funeral Homes, Fenton Chapel, 1000 Silver Lake Rd., Fenton. Pastor Josh Hoover officiating. Visitation will be held 3-8PM Friday and 11-1PM Saturday at the funeral home. Contributions may be made to a charity of one's choice in John's name. John was born December 29, 1937 in Birmingham, Alabama the son of John Dee and Hallie (Hightower) Merrill. He married Sandra Marie Kelsey in 1975 in Fenton. John was employed by General Motors as a stock and parts clerk until his retirement in 1975. He was an avid golfer and boater, and loved fishing and deer hunting. John was also a veteran of the U.S. Navy. Surviving are his wife, Sandra of Fenton; 4 children, Mike Merrill of Grand Blanc, Mark Merrill of Grand Blanc, Lori Machala (Mike) of Grand Blanc, Jill Lanning of Howell; 5 grandchildren, Christen Ellis (Frank), Lindsey Merrill, Michael and Emily Machala, Jacob Ureche; sister, Betty Bettis (Harold) of Springville, AL; 2 nephews, Brett and Chap Bettis. He was precede in death by his parents. Those desiring may share online condolences or post a tribute at www.sharpfuneralhomes.com