Michael C. Merrill age 57, of Opp, Alabama passed away Wednesday, July 15, 2026 at the age of 57. He was born on July 11, 1969.

He was preceded in death by his father, Joe Harman Merrill; step-father, James (Jim) Henry Bawkum; and brother, Robert Dirk Merrill.

Michael will be lovingly remembered by his wife, Pamela Harris Merrill; mother, Navajo Tomberlin Bawkum; children, Jesse Henry Merrill, Christopher (Pam) Benjamin Stivers, David Brian Stivers, Kimberly Michele Kraus, Amy (Michael) Marie Nichols, and Alex Monroe Nichols; sisters, Jan Grimes, Judy (Dennis) Hawthorne, and Lynn (James) Frazer; brother, Freddie Merrill; 21 grandchildren & 9 great-grandchildren; numerous nieces & nephews; and all who knew and loved him.

Michael loved his family dearly. He had a deep love for helicopters, especially collecting and working on them. He also enjoyed woodworking and home improvement projects, always putting his hands and heart into the things he created and repaired.

A memorial service will be held at 2:00 pm Saturday, July 18, 2026 from Blue Springs Baptist Church in Opp, Alabama. All are welcome to attend.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the USO at uso.org.