Sheryl Jo Merritt

Sheryl Jo Merritt, age 77, of Central Florida passed away peacefully at home surrounded by loved ones the morning of January 13, 2026. Born at the Naval Hospital in Jacksonville, Florida on June 28, 1948 to Robert Russell Ray and Elise Cecile Ray. Sheryl was a Navy brat and moved around a bit as a child and as a young adult, but Florida always felt like home. 

She became an ordained minister and was passionate about spreading the word of god. She spent many years ministering at a local homeless food kitchen as well as doing prison ministry. Over the years the lord led her to Mobile, Alabama and then to Johnson City, Tennessee. Sheryl spent many years living in Johnson City, Tennessee and spreading the word of god to as many people as she could. She also ministered frequently in Roanoke, Virginia. She moved back to central Florida in 2020, but frequently went back to Johnson City and Roanoke to visit and minister. 

She leaves behind many wonderful friends and colleagues in those two cities as well as Central Florida. She traveled to Israel twice where she got explore Jerusalem, sacred Christian and biblical sites and many significant historical landmarks and float in the Dead Sea. She went on a missions trip to Haiti many years ago and decided it would be her first and last. If you ever traveled with Sheryl or if she stayed with you at your home, you know she needed A/C, a fan and at least 4 pillows. 

Sheryl Merritt is predeceased by her parents Bob and Elise Ray and grandparents George and Lillian Ray and Valerie and Rose Thomas. Sheryl is survived by her children Dennis Merritt, Sonia Hess and Lea Cordoba her grandchildren Lauren Flanary, Hannah Flanary, Mason Merritt and Morgan Merritt, her sister Cynthia Taylor and her brother Russell Ray and her nephew Jason Ray and niece Rachel Ray. 

Sheryl Merritt will be remembered for her generous heart, her love of books, music, ministry, her willingness to pray for anyone in need, and the deep devotion she had to the church, family and friends. She loved anything starring Tom Selleck or Carey Grant. Her laughter, kindness, and larger than life presence will be deeply missed and never forgotten.

We know you are walking with Lord now and watching over us. We will keep you in our hearts and memories until we meet again in heaven.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to your favorite charity or food bank in Sheryl's honor.