Roy Leslie Merrifield

Roy Leslie Merrifield of Alto, Georgia, passed away on March 9, 2026, at the age of 79.

Roy embraced his calling early in life, enrolling in biblical studies in his twenties. He first attended the theological seminary at Newbold College in England before earning a Master of Divinity degree at Andrews University in Michigan. He went on to serve as a Seventh-day Adventist pastor for many years at churches across Florida and Georgia, most recently as pastor of the Habersham Seventh-day Adventist Church in Mt. Airy, Georgia. His parishioners cherished his powerful and memorable sermons for decades.

He found great joy in golfing with friends, doting on his grandchildren, and sharing stories about his old friends and his time in England.

Roy was preceded in death by his parents, his brothers Ron Merrifield and Ross Merrifield, his wife Gina, and his grandson Peyton Erwin. He is survived by his sister, Kimberly (Welch) Hill; his children, Eric Merrifield, Robin Merrifield, and Crystal Erwin; and his grandchildren, Kieran Merrifield, Lucas Erwin, Brayden Erwin, and Paisley Erwin.