Tony Howard Merritt, Sr

Mr. Tony Howard Merritt Sr., age 62, of Mount Airy, passed away unexpectedly on Thursday, December 4, 2025, at his residence. Mr. Merritt was born in Onslow County, on February 14, 1963, to the late Claude Merritt Sr., and Gladys Edens Wix. He was a loving father, grandfather, brother and friend, who will be deeply missed by all who knew him. There was never a dull moment when Tony was around, he loved to hunt and fish, and watch Nascar on Sundays. He faithfully served in the United States Navy and operated heavy equipment. Left to cherish his memories are his loving fiancé, Sandy S. Taylor; daughter, Allecia Merritt and fiancé Adam Klein (Ellie Mae, Gage, Atlas); son, Tony Merritt Jr., and fiancé Samantha Christakes, fiancé’s children whom he thought of his own, Briana Austin and Andrew (Philip and Ian Austin), Jordan Carter and Corey (Mason, Mavrick, Merritt); brothers and sisters-in-law, Claude “Buster” Merritt Jr., and Theresa, James “Kenny” Merritt and Dora Jean; several nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, Mr. Merritt was preceded in death by his sister, Debbie Merritt; stepfather, Robert Wix. The family will hold a visitation on December 10, 2025, at Moody Funeral Home in Mount Airy from 6:00 PM until 8:00 PM. A burial will follow at Edens Family Cemetery, Hampstead, NC, where he will be laid to rest beside his father, military honors will be provided. Moodys of Mount Airy is respectfully serving the Merritt family.