Anthony Lawson Merritt

Anthony Lawson Merritt, 21, passed away on April 18, 2026. He was born on July 30, 2004, in Nacogdoches, Texas, to his loving parents, Jeffery Merritt and Crystal Aills Merritt.

Anthony was a young man with many passions and a strong work ethic. He played football for Overton High School and was an active member of FFA, where he especially enjoyed showing heifers. He had a deep love for the outdoors and could often be found fishing or hunting. Anthony was also a skilled welder, taking pride in his craft.

He was preceded in death by his great grandparents FM Merritt and wife Lena Merritt, his grandfather, Ernie Aills, and his great-grandfathers, Walter Johnston and Dan Sheridan.

He is survived by his parents, Jeffery and Crystal Merritt of Overton; his brother, Brandon Merritt of Overton; his grandparents, Carl and wife Beckie Merritt of New London, and Tami Aills of Gilmer; and his great-grandparents, Lela Mae Johnston of Arp and Mary Jo Sheridan of Liberty City. He is also survived by his aunt, Megan Williams of Gilmer, and his uncle, Rodney Merritt and wife Leigh of Overton, as well as many other loving relatives and friends.

Anthony will be remembered for his love of family, his dedication to his interests, and the time he spent doing what he loved most.

A visitation will be held 4/25/2026 from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m., followed by a funeral service at 3:00 p.m., both at London Baptist Church.

Serving as pallbearers will be Rodney Merritt, Taylor Williams, Andrew Aills, Brandon Merritt, Carlos Cota, Randy Arnold, and Justin Weir.

Arrangements are under the direction of Cottle-Pearson Funeral Home, Overton.

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