Charles E. Merritt A loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend passed away on May 18, 2022. Charles was born on March 24, 1938, in Tampa, Florida. He married the love of his life, Margaret on September 12, 1959. Charles worked as a State Trooper for 8 years. He retired as a detective with the CSX railroad after more than 33 years of service.

Charles will be greatly missed by his loving wife Margaret of 64 years; their daughter Sandra Patterson and husband Steve, their son Charles "Roger" Merritt and wife Danielle; 10 grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren. Also survived by his half-brother Forester "Skip" and wife Jayne, and half-sister Penny.

A memorial service will be held at the United Methodist Temple 2700 Florida Avenue South Lakeland, FL 33803 (863) 688 3114 on Saturday, June 4th at 11:00 am. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in the memory of Charles Merritt to your favorite local hospice or to St. Jude's Children's Hospital. Online condolences may be made at www.Gentry-Morrison.com.