Barbara Jean Merritt

Barbara Merritt Obituary Barbara Jean Merritt was born on October 9, 1938, to Mitzi and John Prince in Cleveland, Ohio. She grew up in the Outwaite Projects of the inner city and attended Cleveland Public Schools. Barbara cherished her time at Kennard Junior High School and later graduated from East Technical High School. In her early years, Barbara worked in the Dietary Department at St. Vincent Charity Hospital. During this time, she met the love of her life, Arthur Merritt, and they married in 1959. Their union was blessed with three children: Anthony, Eric, and Kecia. Barbara devoted herself to being an exceptional mother and homemaker, creating a loving home for her family in Warrensville Heights, Ohio. She and Arthur became deeply rooted in the community, and Barbara’s warm nature and nurturing spirit made her a mother figure to countless neighborhood children. Her home was always a sanctuary—a place filled with love, warmth, and the aroma of home-cooked meals. Barbara extended her heart of service to many by running a daycare out of her home and helping to raise children from the community. Her open-door policy was a testament to her generosity and love for others. Barbara’s devotion extended beyond her immediate family. She cared for her mother, brother, father-in-law, and husband in their final days, embodying compassion, and selflessness. She continued this legacy of care by cherishing and nurturing her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Barbara was preceded in death by her husband, Arthur Merritt, and brother James Prince. On Saturday, December 28, 2024, Barbara peacefully transitioned from this life, surrounded by her loving family at home. She leaves behind her sons, Anthony (Claudia) and Eric, and her daughter, Kecia. Stepchildren Arthur Jr. and Marsha. Her legacy also includes her grandchildren: Quisha Merritt, Anthony Perry, Tiara Merritt, Domonique Mahone, London Merritt, and Breaynna Merritt. Her great-grandchildren: Michaela Sims, Jaydin Robinson, Cory Perry, Caden Perry, Bryce Sanders, Zuri Mahone, Ryan Ceasar Mahone Jr., Ava Wherry, and Benjamin Wherry III, Amia Wherry, Kadence Commons, Kobra Commons, and a blessing on the way. She is also survived by her brother, Michael Prince (Linda), as well as a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. Barbara’s love, kindness, and unwavering devotion to her family and community will live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate to know her. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Barbara Jean Merritt, please visit our floral store. Read More

Barbara Jean Merritt

January 1, 1753