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Sept. 9, 1974 – June 21, 2020

NATCHEZ — Memorial services for Vernon Ray “Buddy” Merritt, Jr., 45, of Natchez, who died Sunday, June 21, 2020, in Natchez will be 2 p.m. Friday, June 26, 2020, at Kingston United Methodist Church with Rev. Paul Southerland officiating. Arrangements are under the direction of Laird Funeral Home.

Mr. Merritt was born September 09, 1974, in Natchez, MS, the son of Vernon Ray Merritt, Sr. and Karen D. Britt Hardin.

He was of the Christian faith. He was a hardworking man, played golf, and loved spending time with his family and friends. Buddy was a proud father and loving husband and son.

Mr. Merritt was preceded in death by his father, Vernon Ray Merritt, Sr.; grandparents, Vernon and Ruth Merritt and Paul and Betty Britt; uncles, Terry Britt, Andy Britt, Bobby Merritt and Carlton Lee Merritt; and aunt Linda Merritt.

Survivors include his wife, Rebekah Merritt; son, Christopher Merritt; daughter Kristyn Merritt; mother, Karen Britt Hardin and husband Carl of Jackson, MS; father and mother in law Howard and Pat Cater, sister Melissa E. Thompson and husband Mark of Vaiden, MS; brothers, Brian Merritt and wife Amanda of Brookhaven, MS and Chris G. Merritt and wife Deborah of Dallas, TX., brother in law Buddy Cater and wife Lisa of Memphis, Tn.; sister in law Rachel Windham of Vidalia, La; oldest friend and cousin, Cori Britt; and many other beloved relatives and friends.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to M.D. Anderson or charity of one’s choice.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at laird fh.com