William "Bill" Gray Merritt

William “Bill” Gray Merritt, 86, went home to be with the Lord March 16, 2018. Funeral Services celebrating his life will be held 3:00PM Sunday March 18, 2018 at First Christian Church with Pastor Dr. Pete Kunkle officiating. Interment will be 12:00PM Noon Tuesday March 20, 2018 in Oaklawn Cemetery in Winston-Salem. A native of Forsyth County, Bill was the son of the late Eva Beatrice Kiser and Rev. Lawrence Melvin Merritt, Sr. He served with the US Army in Germany during the Korean War. He would later attend NC State University and received his Associate’s Degree prior to working with the former Western Electric. He retired from Lucent Technologies following 40 years of service. Bill loved to sing, and sang with numerous Southern Gospel groups over the years including The Crusaders, The Bethany Quartet, and The Christian Way. In addition to his parents, Bill also was preceded in death by his sisters Frances Hayes and Helen Merritt; and brothers Lawrence Merritt, Jr. and Charles Merritt. He was a longtime member of First Christian Church where he was also a member of the Prayer Warriors. Survivors include his loving wife of 64 years, Peggy Wilhelm Merritt of the home; daughters Karen Merritt Puterbaugh and Richard of Kernersville, and Lori Price and Mike of Winston-Salem; son Randy Merritt and Amy of Winston-Salem; grandchildren Angela Puterbaugh Pope and Bryan, Jeremy Merritt and Carrie, Jessica Merritt Craven, Ryan Puterbaugh and Kimberly, Whitney Gupton and Chris, and Hayley Hutchins and Seth; great-grandchildren Drew, Nick, Yael, Abbi, Luna, Jed Willie, McKayla, Mason, Charleigh, Cooper Jane, and Cameron; sister Barbara Merritt Griggs and Garland of Winston-Salem; and numerous nieces, nephews, extended family and friends. The family will visit with friends immediately following the service at the church on Sunday. Friends may sign, and view the guestbook at www.Pierce-JeffersonFuneralService.com In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to First Christian Church, 1130 N. Main Street, Kernersville, NC 27284