John Devon Merrill

John Devon Merrill, 87, of Shaft, passed away Friday, December 20, 2024, at Sterling Care Nursing Home.

Born September 3, 1937, to Lex Leo Merrill and Delores (Chaney) Merrill. He is preceded in death by his parents; brothers, James Merrill and Walter “Doc” Merrill; sisters in law, Marie Sigler and Patricia Leake.

John was a member of First English Baptist Church, he loved his Lord and Savior and spent countless hours reading his Bible and Christian reference books. In his younger years, he was a Lay Speaker for various churches in the area.

 John has worked since he was 12 years old, graduated from Fort Hill High School in 1955, joining the U.S. Air Force from 1955 to 1959. He graduated from Allegany College with a 2-year degree and worked at Queen City Dairy as a milk truck driver and moved onto Kelly Springfield Tire Company as a tire builder and laborer for 20 years. He retired from the department of Social Services after 10 years. 

 Fran and John early in their marriage traveled several times to Novia Scotia and Prince Edward Island, Canada. Then more recently they enjoyed traveling to Asheville, Calabash and Sunset Beach, NC to visit Steve, Amy, Madison and Regan. They loved spending time with their grandchildren, attending sporting events and dance concerts.

 Surviving are his wife of 34 years, Frances (Leake) Merrill; children, Michael Merrill, Timothy Merrill and wife Candy; stepson, Steven Densmore and wife Amy; step grandchildren, Madison Densmore and Regan Densmore; siblings, Sandi Rose, Joan Howser and husband David, Lex Merrill and wife Rachel, Deborah Broman and husband Donald, Robert Merrill and wife Carol and Kim Pannone; sister in laws, Mary Leake and Rhonda Merrill; and many nieces and nephews.

 Family and friends will be received at Durst Funeral Home, 57 Frost Avenue, Frostburg, on Friday, December 27, 2024, from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm. Funeral service will follow at 1:00 pm with Rev. Bruce McBride and Rev. David Sandvick.

 Interment will be in the Frostburg Memorial Park with a Committal Service by Pastor Chris Skidmore.

 Timothy 4:6; For I am already being poured out like a drink offering, and the time has come for my departure. I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteous Judge will award to me on that day and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing…..well-done John.