ROCKY MOUNT -Billy Charles Merritt, 73, passed away Tuesday, September 4, 2012.  He was born in Edgecombe County on June 14, 1939 to the late Otto and Kate Rains Merritt.  In addition to his parents he is preceded in death by his brother, Otto C. (Buster) Merritt, and sister, Nell Merritt Boseman.

Survivors include his wife of 19 years, Debra Dildy Merritt; sons, John Davian Merritt of Apex, Billy Charles Merritt, Jr., and wife Stephanie of Cary; stepson, John Baker and wife Tiffany of Rocky Mount; stepdaughter, Kimberly B. Lewis and husband, Brian of Rocky Mount; grandchildren, Haley and George Merritt, Grayson and Cassidy Baker, Landon and Garrett Lewis and Brooke Sancrante; mother-in-law, Elizabeth Parham Clay; sisters and brothers-in-law, Patricia and Randy Weaver, Susan and Russell Laney, Layne and Frances Dildy, and Craig and Carol Dildy; several nieces and nephews; along with a special friend.

A memorial service to remember Billy will be held Thursday, September 6, 2012 at 6 p.m. at Wheeler and Woodlief Funeral Home with Pastor John Scott and Swane Holloman officiating.  The family will receive friends and relatives following the service and other times at the home.