Thomas Merrell MSG (RET)

Thomas Merrell, 84

Passed away on Sunday, October 20, 2024.

Thomas Merrell was born to Wilson and Katie Merrell on September 1st, 1940, in Gadsden, Alabama. He graduated from Carver High School and, afterward, enjoyed an outstanding Military career, which began in 1962 and included tours in the military with travels to Oklahoma, Kentucky, Hawaii, California, Alabama, and Germany. During that time, he served our country in the Vietnam War and retired as a Master Sergeant in the US Army in 1987 at Fort Sill, Oklahoma. After his retirement, he worked an additional 20 years in civil service and retired a second -time from Altus Air Force Base, Altus, OK. In 1968, he married the love of his life, Florence Jean Young, in Lawton, Oklahoma, which has extended over fifty years. You could always recognize the couple by their "matching outfits" and "Giving Spirit." He was ordained as a Deacon in 1987 at Mt. Calvary Baptist Church in Lawton, Ok, and served as the Chair of the Deacon Board.

In 1996, they united with Galilee Missionary Baptist Church, where Later he faithfully served as the Chairman of the Deacon Board from 2014-2019. Affectionately known as "Uncle T" by his nieces and nephews, he was always a father to the fatherless, mentor, spiritual leader, and friend to the friendless. He was a servant to all and a pillar to his community and family!

He was preceded in death by his parents, Wilson and Katie Merrell, and three Brothers, including Herman Smith. In addition, Murlene Thomas, Sister-in-Law of Lawton, Oklahoma. He leaves behind his Wife of more than 50 years, Florence of Lawton, Stephanie Johnson (Grand Prairie, Texas), Michael/Denise (Yorkshire, England), Cassandra/Berry Sibley (Haughton, LA), Carlos Merrell (Lawton, Ok) and Christopher/LaTonia Merrell (Lancaster, TX). In addition to nine grandchildren, four great grandchildren and a host of nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be on Monday, October 28, 2024 from 4:00pm - 6:00pm Lawton Chapel. Services will be on Tuesday, October 29, 2024 at 11:00am at Galilee Missionary Baptist Church 7 NE Louis K Jones Ave Lawton, OK 73507. Burial will be at 2:00pm at Ft. Sill National Cemetery, Elgin, OK.

Services are in the care of Howard-Harris Funeral Services 1005 SW C Ave. Lawton, OK

LINKS

Howard Harris Funeral Service

Lawton Constitution

http://www.lawton-constitution.com