Melvin Rickey Merritt

Melvin “Rickey” Merritt, 69, of Powdersville, South Carolina, passed away on Monday, March 9, 2026. Born on April 2, 1956, in Greenville County, South Carolina, he was the son of the late J.R. and Thelma Cooper Merritt.

A proud graduate of Wren High School’s class of 1974, Rickey built a life defined by purpose, integrity, and quiet strength. He founded MRM Construction and became well known throughout Anderson, Greenville, and Pickens counties for his skilled craftsmanship. Whether constructing metal buildings or private airplane hangars, he approached every project with dedication and care. A loving husband of 49 years to Georgia Ann Barron Merritt, he was also a devoted brother and uncle whose direct, honest nature earned the respect of everyone who knew him. His faith remained central to his life as a lifetime member of Siloam Baptist Church in Powdersville and through his cherished connections at Oakey Mountain Baptist Church in Batesville, Georgia. Rickey found deep joy in bass fishing, where he once proudly landed a ten-and-a-half-pound bass, as well as in restoring antique cars and trucks. His strong patriotic spirit was evident in both his work and his quiet pursuits.

He is survived by his wife, Georgia Ann Barron Merritt; three brothers, Wendell Merritt (Dale), David Merritt (Dollie), and Jerry Merritt (Dawn); two sisters, Carolyn Merritt and Sharon King; twelve nieces and nephews, Adam Barron (Melissa), Rebecca Barron, Douglas Merritt (Grace), Monika Merritt, Dena Whitten (Jonathan), Jessica Merritt, Clay Merritt (RoseAngela), Cody King, Chase Merritt (Kelsey), Jesse King (Rachel), Daniel Merritt, and Kylee Heaton; and fourteen great-nieces and nephews.