Demetrius L. Merrick

Demetrius L. Merrick was born February 6, 1965 in Kansas City, Missouri to Stoney L. Merrick and Barbara J. Merrick (Tanner). He was the youngest of 4 children. Demetrius was preceded in death by his mother, Mrs. Barbara J. Merrick; grandparents: Joseph Tanner Sr., Ethel N. Tanner, and Thelma Wesley; aunt, Pauline Watkins; and uncles: Joseph Merrick, Anthony Tanner Sr., and Joseph Tanner Jr.

Demetrius dedicated himself to his work as an auto mechanic for over 30 years and was always ready to take on additional side hustles. After obtaining his GED, he completed his higher education at TAD Technical Institute and received certification in Auto Mechanics with a specialization in Motor Vehicle Air Conditioning (MVAC).

In 2016, Demetrius married his life-time love, Martina Merrick (McCullough). He had a tremendous love for his family, and he cherished the time spent cooking with and for them. Family gatherings were especially meaningful to him, and he loved playing games with family and friends, including Dominoes, Pokeno, Yahtzee, and various card games. An avid sports enthusiast, Demetrius also enjoyed bowling, skating (as he was quite smooth and skillful in it), and engaging in various athletic activities. He was passionate about fishing and took great pride in demonstrating his techniques and showing off his catches. Two things that Demetrius preferred not to be disturbed from was his favorite show—Perry Mason—and his Kansas City Chiefs. He had a deep appreciation for music and dancing, often being the life of the party with his entertaining presence and infectious energy. Very importantly, Demetrius believed in the power of God and prayer.

Demetrius is survived by many friends and family who love and care for him dearly, including his 6 children and 2 additional children who he helped to raise: Demetrius Merrick II, Ashley Merrick, Philip Merrick, William Merrick, and Michael Merrick—all with Tina McCullough; and Courtney Drake, Roger Grant, and Bobbie Lee (Joseph Lee)—all with Cynthia Grant. He is also survived by 18 grandchildren; his father, Stoney Merrick; sisters, Cheryl Western and Carol Merrick; brother, Cordell Merrick (Nankita Perez); and many nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, and cousins. Demetrius's vibrant spirit and love for life and his family will be deeply missed by all who knew him.