Obituary of Ruby Hunt Merritt

CARRBORO — Mrs. Ruby Hunt Merritt, 104, died May 12, 2013 at her home. She was born May 17, 1908, in Chatham County to the late Charlie and Maybelle Hunt. Mrs. Merritt spent most of her life living in Chapel Hill and Carrboro. She was preceded in death by her husband, Eben Merritt; and her brother, Onyx Hunt. She is survived by four children: Virginia Grantham, Iris Womble (Tom), Clarice Page (Bill), and Dr. Wyndell Merritt; seven grandchildren: Mary Lib Sinodis (David), Kathy Lynch (Mark), Karen Wallace, Bruce Page (Linda) and Doug Page, Hunter Merritt (Lori) and Ian Merritt; five great-grandchildren: Bryan Grantham (Dreama), Dillon and Riley Lynch, Eben and Sunny Merritt; three step great-grandsons: Joey (Chris), Ross (Amanda) and Thomas (Tiffany) Sinodis; two step-great-great-granddaughters: Kate and Lily Sinodis. Mrs. Meritt was the oldest member Mt. Carmel Baptist Church in Chapel Hill. She served the church by freely giving her musical talent for 75 years. As a gifted teacher in the church, she taught different age groups from the youngest to the oldest classes about God's love. Throughout the years she served on many church committees. She remained alert and true to her church even though her health prevented her from attending during her last years. Each month she faithfully sent her monetary contribution and each week she looked forward to hearing the sermon on her CD. She always enjoyed visits from her pastor and friends. A favorite pastime was cheering for UNC athletes on television. What a wonderful role model for her family and all who knew her! Her preference was for a private family burial service followed by a memorial service for family and friends at Mt Carmel. The memorial service will be held on Thursday, May 16 at Mt. Carmel Baptist Church at 11:30 a.m., with the Reverend Dennis Hill officiating. Following the service, there will be a reception for family and friends. The family wishes to express their deepest appreciation to all those who provided prayers and support. Especially are they grateful to the nurses with Southern Comfort Home Care who gave "Miss Ruby" their special love and care. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Mt. Carmel Baptist Church Building Fund, 2016 Mt. Carmel Church Rd., Chapel Hill, NC 27517.