John Gilbert Merrell, Jr.

Mr. John Gilbert Merrell, Jr., 73, of Walterboro, entered into rest Thursday afternoon, June 18, 2026, at his residence.

Born March 6, 1953, in Laurel, Mississippi, he served our country faithfully in the United States Navy. He dearly loved and dedicated a great deal of his life to the Boy Scouts of America; having primarily been involved with Spartanburg Troop No. 28 as well as Troops local to the Walterboro community. His time and service to the Boy Scouts honored him with countless awards. He was a member of Faith – Walterboro, The American Legion, and the Elks Lodge.

Surviving are: his wife, Christiana Pope Merrell; a daughter, Jennifer Merrell Davis (Joseph) of Walterboro; a son, Brett Parker Merrell (Alexandra) of Maggie Valley, North Carolina; four grandchildren, Merlin, Joshua, John-Michael, and Julianne; a brother, Mark Eric Nicholson; and two half-sisters, Paula Brooks McCaleb and Kimberly M. Polk. He was preceded in death by his mother, Johnette Elizabeth Collins Nicholson along with her husband Ernest; and his beloved grandmother, Ruth Collins.

Memorials may be directed in his memory to: Friends of Colleton County Animal Shelter.

A family led memorial service for friends and family to celebrate his life will be held in the near future. Details are available by contacting a family member.

Arrangements by: THE BRICE W. HERNDON AND SONS FUNERAL HOMES AND CREMATORY, WALTERBORO CHAPEL, 1193 Bells Highway, Walterboro, 843.538.5408. Visit the registry online at: www.briceherndon.com.