Melvin Rickey Merritt

Melvin “Rickey” Merritt, 69, of Powdersville, South Carolina, loving husband of Georgia Ann Barron Merritt, went home to be with his Lord and Savior on Monday, March 9, 2026.

Born on April 2, 1956, in Greenville County, South Carolina, he was a son of the late J.R. and Thelma Cooper Merritt. Rickey lived a life rich with purpose, boundless love, and a steadfast spirit, embodying the very essence of what it means to be a builder—not only in craft but also in relationships. A proud graduate of Wren High School's class of 1974, Rickey ventured into the world of construction, where his hands became tools of creation. With an unwavering passion for his craft, he founded MRM Construction and became a familiar figure in the communities of Anderson, Greenville, and Pickens County. His work was more than mere construction, it was an expression of his dedication and his love for building—metal buildings and private airplane hangars stood as monuments to his skill, testifying to a man who saw beauty in the function and purpose of every project he undertook. Rickey was a loving husband, brother, and uncle, rooted firmly in his faith and unwavering in his devotion to family. Known for his directness, he was a straight shooter who never wavered in his beliefs, a quality that endeared him to all who met him. He found joy not only in his work but in the moments spent casting lines into serene waters, where bass fishing became both a passion and an adventure. His personal record, a proud ten-and-a-half-pound bass, stands testament to his unwavering patience and skill. Rickey's interests extended to the restoration of antique cars and trucks, where each project was a labor of love infused with his unique touch. His heartbeat strongly with patriotic pride, a feeling reflected in both his work and leisure pursuits. A lifetime member of Siloam Baptist Church in Powdersville, he found solace in community and spiritual fellowship, cherishing his connections at Oakey Mountain Baptist Church in Batesville, Georgia.

In addition to his loving wife of 49 years, he is survived by three brothers, Wendell Merritt (Dale), David Merritt (Dollie), and Jerry Merritt (Dawn); two sisters, Carolyn Merritt, and Sharon King; twelve nieces and nephews, Adam Barron (Melissa), Rebecca Barron, Douglas Merritt (Grace), Monika Merritt, Dena Whitten (Jonathan), Jessica Merritt, Clay Merritt (RoseAngela), Cody King, Chase Merritt (Kelsey), Jesse King (Rachel), Daniel Merritt, and Kylee Heaton; as well as fourteen great-nieces and nephews.

The family will receive friends from 1:00 PM until 2:45 PM on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Siloam Baptist Church. A funeral service will follow at 3:00 PM in the church sanctuary. Burial will follow the service in Siloam Baptist Church Cemetery.

In keeping with Rickey’s relaxed nature, the family invites you to attend the service casual attire – no ties required.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to The Legacy Fund of Siloam Baptist Church, 229 Siloam Church Road, Easley, South Carolina 29642.

Visit RobinsonFuneralHomes.com or Robinson Funeral Home & Crematory - Powdersville Road, Easley