Robert Eugene Merritt

   Robert Eugene “Gene” Merritt went home to be with Jesus 12/31/22. Gene was born May 15, 1938 in Mobile, Alabama. He graduated from Baker High School in 1956. He graduated with a master’s degree from South Alabama. Gene was a 24-year Veteran of the United States Airforce. Gene’s Airforce assignments included:  Kansas, Japan, Tennessee, Alaska, Georgia, and Mississippi. Gene also attended weather school and was in meteorology for 50 years. Gene often said, “I never worked a day in my life.” That is how much he loved meteorology. During the years 1993-2009, Gene was a professor at The University of South Alabama. He taught many Geography and Meteorology classes. Gene was instrumental in developing the first Radar class at South Alabama. His love of meteorology, as well as the love for his students, made him a great professor. In 2005, he received an Award from Mobile County Commission for Outstanding Service after Hurricane Katrina. He also completed several Emergency Response trainings to enhance public safety in Mobile, in which he received awards. Preceded in death by his parents William “Bill” and Lilly Merritt, and stepmother Myrtle Merritt.

    Gene is survived by his wife, Rachel, of 57 years, sisters-in-law:  Louise Hughes, Jacque Johnson, Susan Smith (Keith), Shelly Stewart (Phillip), Kelly Johnson, and brother-in-law Eddie Johnson, and several nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews. 

   Visitation will be held on Tuesday, January 10, 2023, from 11:00 AM until 12:00 PM from Forest Hill Church of God. The funeral service will begin at 12:00 PM. Interment will follow in Alabama State Veteran's Memorial Cemetery in Spanish Fort.

Officiating Pastor Daniel Blaylock.
Pallbearers: Gerald Wade Hughes Jr, Andy Johnson, Brian Johnson, Blaine Smith, Garrett Stewart & Colton Phillips.

Gene will be sadly missed by relatives and friends. 

Memorial contributions may be made to ABBA Shrine Transportation Fund, in Honor of Gene Merritt, 7701 Hitt Road Mobile, Al 36695.