Obituaries

Benjamin “Benny” Andrew Merriman, 80, of Madison, NC, passed away on Monday, December 23, 2024, at Wesley Long Hospital in Greensboro, NC. He was born on September 17, 1944, in Fieldale, VA, to the late Colonel Merriman and Annie "Pearl" Merriman. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Milton Merriman; sisters Frances M. Hilton and Iris M. Basham; daughter in law, Dana Merriman; granddaughter, Kayla Hill.

Benny loved being outdoors. It didn’t matter if it was for yard work, hiking, festivals, family gatherings or just sitting on the porch. He truly believed fresh air, sunshine and his dog, Bella, made for a perfect day.

He had the prettiest blue eyes that made you notice him. He had the biggest genuine smile that made you want to chat with him. He had the biggest, most beautiful heart that made you love him. He will be missed dearly.

He is survived by his wife, Beatrice Gerlene Merriman of Madison, NC; his son, Lawrence "Lance" Merriman (Amy) of Colonial Heights, VA; his stepdaughters, Betty Sowers Plunkett of Martinsville, VA; Sandra Sowers (Jan) of Ridgeway, VA; Rena Foley Cromer (Paul) of Madison, NC; Granddaughter, Miranda Loftis (Scott) and Great Grandson, Grayson Loftis of Danville, VA; one brother, Ray Merriman; two sisters, Betty Eanes and Kay M. Ratliff; one sister in law, Frances Merriman; and several nephews and nieces and their families.

A graveside service will be held Monday, December 30, 2024, at 2:00 PM at Roselawn Burial Park, Martinsville, VA. At other times, the family will receive friends and family at the home.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Shriners Hospitals for Children or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Bassett Funeral Service is serving the Merriman family.