Vera Merritt

Vera Mae Merritt, age 88, of Monticello, FL, passed away Wednesday evening, June 4th, at Good Samaritan Center in Advent Christian Village, Dowling Park, FL Vera was born on August 25, 1936, in Jefferson County, FL, to the late Jeff and Janie Cook.

She was preceded in death by her husband, the love of her life, Harold Merritt. They made their home in Jefferson County and enjoyed over 52 years of marriage. She was also preceded in death by her sisters Louise Bradley, Rena Bell-Walker, Inez Edwards, Betty Jean Swilley, and brother Harmon Cook.

She was a beloved member of her community and a lifelong member of Ebenezer Baptist Church in Lamont, FL, where she served faithfully. Vera was a dedicated homemaker, devoting her life to caring for her family. As a nurturing caregiver, she provided unwavering support to family members throughout her life. She was affectionately known as "Nanny" to her grandchildren, who will always cherish the countless memories made in her loving presence.

Her passion for flowers and gardening brought beauty into her life, and she enjoyed spending time outdoors. She loved any chance for a little fishing trip and would remind her family it was called fishing, not catching. Vera and her husband believed if the good Lord had entrusted an animal to you, it was your duty to take care of them in the best way possible. She and Harold enjoyed their farm animals and pets and spent time together caring for them. They formed special bonds with and spoiled their entrusted treasures. Realizing the value of caring for God's creation, they invested time in their young family members, teaching them all that they could and encouraging them to always give their best.

Vera was a great southern country cook. She loved to get in her kitchen and make favorite meals for family and friends. One of her greatest joys was sharing Sunday dinners after church, special occasions, fish fry’s, any meal, or just a glass of iced tea with the people she loved most. Anytime she could be with her sisters, brother, nieces, nephews, and friends sharing a meal, she was in a good place.

Survivors include her daughter, Janet Demott (Andy) of Hernando, FL; sister Willie Mae Granger of Waccissa, FL; grandchildren Lyndsay Scheese (Jason) of Monticello, FL, Leianne Hobson (Daryl) of Lecanto, FL, and A.D. Demott III of Hernando, great grandchildren Hunter, Kaylei, Hadlei, Scarlett, and Hendrix Hobson, followed by many nieces and nephews. Vera was totally devoted to her grandchildren, nieces, and nephews, and was instrumental in the lives of them all and loved them wholeheartedly.

A service will be held on Sunday, June 8, 2025, at 3:00 pm, Ebenezer Baptist Church in Lamont, FL, with Pastor Andy Creel and Reverend Phil Miller-Evens officiating. The family will receive friends on Saturday, June 7, 2025, from 4:00-6:00 pm at Allen & Allen Funeral Home, Thomasville, GA.