Obituary of Alvis Jacob Merrill

ASHEVILLE – Alvis Jacob Merrill, age 94, of Asheville, died Monday, April 19, 2021.

Mr. Merrill was born July 1, 1926 in Buncombe County to the late Carl and Estelle Trantham Merrill; he was a resident of Buncombe County all of his life. Alvis was a veteran of the US Army during World War II.  He retired from the Charles George V.A. Hospital after 31 years of service.  Alvis was a home builder for many years and loved working with his tractor and gardening.  He was a 70-year member of Grassy Branch Baptist Church.

In addition to his parents, he was also preceded in death by his brothers, Vincent, Theron, Bill and Dennis Merrill.

Surviving is his wife of  73 years, Lovina Sales “Crickett” Merrill; two sons, Dana Alvis Merrill and wife Sherry, and Dale C. Merrill and wife Helen Clevenger Merrill; four grandchildren, Kristen Bissett and Kevin Alvis Merrill, Peyton Young and Patterson Revis and husband Kevin; and four great grandchildren, Jacob, Bailey, Tanner and Miller.

Preceding his memorial service, a military honors burial will be held at 11:00 a.m. Thursday, April 22, 2021 in Western Carolina State Veterans Cemetery in Black Mountain. A memorial service will be held 1:00 p.m. Thursday, April 22, 2021 in Grassy Branch Baptist Church. Reverend Lonnie Ray will officiate.

Per the NC Governor, masks are required.

Flowers are welcome.  Those desiring to make a memorial contribution are encouraged to consider: Grassy Branch Baptist Church, 499 Riceville Road, Asheville, NC 28805.

For those who desire, condolences may be offered to the family under Mr. Merrill’s obituary at www.WestFamilyFuneralServices.com.