William "Bill" A. Merritt, Jr.

Augusta, GA – William “Bill” Alexander Merritt, Jr., 84, fine artist, builder, avid fisherman, storyteller, and lover of life, entered into rest on Sunday, February 23, 2025. He was the beloved husband of 52 years to Mrs. Judith Copley Merritt and a devoted father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend to all.

Bill was a native of Augusta, Georgia. He was best known for his kind heart, quick wit, and his effortless ability to make friends wherever he went. If there was a room full of people, Bill was often the one making them smile—whether through a well-timed joke, a twinkle in his eye, or a story so good you didn’t care if you’d heard it before. He had a way of making people feel at home, like they belonged.

 A true Renaissance man, Bill’s creativity knew no limits. He was passionate about art, often working on multiple projects at once—his mind always brimming with ideas that he poured onto canvas, wood, and paper. His prolific body of work spanned from striking portraiture to lush landscapes, each piece infused with emotion, depth, and a reverence for the world around him. He was just as skilled with his hands as he was with a paintbrush, crafting intricate wood carvings, sculptures, and furniture that reflected his deep appreciation for craftsmanship. His workshop was a wild place of constant creation, filled with sawdust, paint, and the quiet focus of a man adding beauty to the world. Even in his final days, Bill sat in his favorite chair, pencil in hand, busily completing a sketch of a windswept tree he'd been working on for weeks—a fitting testament to his lifelong dedication to his art.

His career spanned many ventures, but one of his most notable accomplishments was owning and operating his own family contracting business, where he built homes in the Washington, D.C. area. He had an incredible work ethic, an eye for detail, and a determination that left a lasting impact—not just in the structures he built, but in the lives he touched along the way. 

Beyond his many talents, Bill was a man of great humor and warmth. He had a sharp wit, loved a good joke, and could turn the most ordinary moment into something unforgettable. Whether he was telling a story from his past, playfully teasing his grandchildren, or offering sage advice, Bill had a way of making people feel at ease—like they were exactly where they were meant to be.

Bill’s greatest love, however, was his family. He cherished every moment spent with his children and grandchildren, offering words of wisdom, a listening ear, or simply a quiet presence when it was needed most. He was never too busy to proof a school paper, teach his daughters how to paint clouds, or stay up late working on a school project. To those who knew him, he wasn’t just a father or grandfather—he was a steady, unwavering source of love and encouragement.

He is survived by his loving wife, Judith, and his children: Theresa de la Canal, William Alexander Merritt III, Suzanne Merritt, Michelle Renee Merritt, and Alise K. Merritt. He was a proud grandfather to Natalia de la Canal, Hector de la Canal, Alex Merritt (Suzanne Justice), Noa Marie Merritt, Elizabeth Merritt, Suzi Terry (Luke), Tiffany Smith (Kason), Andrea Emmons (Cody), and Alexander Merritt Hammond (fiancée Sarah). His legacy continues through his great-grandchildren: Grace Merritt, Emily Merritt, Kora Merritt, Everett Terry, Oliver Terry, Korbin Smith, and Tegan Smith. He is also survived by his brothers, Dennis Ray Merritt and Randy Vernon Merritt (Frances) and niece: Misty Twyman. He was preceded in death by his parents, William and Vera Merritt, and his brother, Kenneth Algie Merritt.

A memorial service celebrating Bill’s life will be held on Friday, February 28, 2025, at 2:00 P.M. in the chapel of Thomas Poteet & Son, with Rev. Craig Middleton officiating.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation, National Headquarters, ATTN: Financial Operations, 733 Third Avenue, Ste. 510, New York, NY 10017, or via www.crohnscolitisfoundation.org.

The family will receive friends prior to the service from 1:00 until 2:00 P.M. at Thomas Poteet & Son Funeral Directors, 214 Davis Rd., Augusta, GA 30907.