News Summary
William Leon Merriman, an esteemed employee of the Catoosa County Road Department, passed away at 81. Celebrated for his dedication and kindness, he left behind a loving family and a community that will miss him dearly. Funeral services are set to honor his remarkable legacy.
Ringgold, Georgia – William Leon Merriman, a long-serving employee of the Catoosa County Road Department, passed away on Friday, June 6, 2025, at the age of 81. Merriman’s more than 50-year tenure at the road department was marked by a strong dedication to his work and a profound appreciation for his co-workers.
Born on July 15, 1943, in Chattanooga, Tennessee, he was the son of the late Crawford and Genita Merriman. Merriman had a reputation for his kindness and his deep affection for family and friends. He was a devoted family man, surviving by his wife Linda, with whom he shared a 40-year marriage, and his two children, son Shane Merriman and daughter Angela Merriman. In addition to his immediate family, he is also survived by his brother Richard Merriman and sisters Paulette Steele and Debbie, along with three grandchildren: Dravon, Brendan, and Breanna Merriman. His family noted that he will also be missed by his dog, Cooper.
Merriman was a person of faith and was known for his involvement in the Baptist community. Outside of work and family commitments, he found joy in trout fishing and often spent quality time outdoors with his fishing buddies. He also enjoyed visiting neighbors, collecting classic model cars, and making memories with his family.
Funeral Arrangements
Funeral services for William Leon Merriman are scheduled for 1 p.m. on Tuesday, June 10, at Heritage Funeral Home in Battlefield Parkway. Interment will immediately follow the service at Lakewood Memory Gardens, East. The family will be receiving friends from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. prior to the service on the same day. For those wishing to express their condolences, they can do so online at the Heritage Funeral Home website.
Community Impact
The Catoosa County community has expressed its sorrow over Merriman’s passing, recognizing not only his long-term service to the road department but also his warm spirit and the lasting relationships he built over his lifetime. Colleagues and friends have shared their memories of him, describing a man who went above and beyond in his work while fostering a strong sense of camaraderie among fellow employees.
The Merriman family has extended their gratitude to individuals such as Gene and Susie Wilson, Tim Smith, and Barbara Breneman, who provided support and care during this difficult time. Their assistance has been notably comforting, reflecting the community bonds that Merriman valued throughout his life.
Legacy
William Leon Merriman’s legacy will be remembered by many in Catoosa County, especially by those who had the pleasure of working alongside him. His commitment, kindness, and genuine love for people served as an inspiration to both his family and community, making him a cherished member of the Ringgold area.
As family and friends gather to celebrate his life, they reflect on the impact he had and the love he shared, ensuring that his memory remains a vital part of their lives moving forward.
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Additional Resources
- Heritage Battlefield: William Leon Merriman
- Chattanoogan: Barbara Ross Rogers
- Chattanoogan: Tavarious Dequan Johnson
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Obituary
- Google Search: William Leon Merriman
