Paul S. Merritt, Jr., 81, of Shelbyville, passed away Monday, June 2, 2025, at Willows of Shelbyville.
He was born May 27, 1944, in Shelbyville, IN to Paul S. Merritt, Sr. and Opal (Foster) Merritt.
Paul graduated from Shelbyville High School with the class of 1962. He was a member of First Baptist Church in Shelbyville and Independent Order of Odd Fellows Yorktown Lodge #345.
He was also a member of Hope Rebecca Lodge #114. He was a former member of The Freemason Union Valley Lodge No. 545 in Bargersville. When he was younger, he was a member of Boys Scouts of America for over 17 years. Paul enjoyed wood working and racing cars at the Indy Speedrome. He collected Mickey Mouse memorabilia. He and his wife enjoyed many trips to Disney World through the years and more recently, their trips to Dollywood.
He married Diana (Mollenkopf) Merritt on December 20, 2002, and she survives.
He is also survived by his daughter, Lisa Cheek; his son, Matt Merritt; his step-daughter, Mary Ogden (Josh Allen); his step-son, Jeff Sosbe (Mary Thurston); his grandchildren, Mya Cheek, Brandyn Ogden, Lindsey Dow, Dezirae Ogden, Jordan Rupp and Bryce Sosbe; his brother, Greg Merritt; several great-grandchildren and he is also survived by multiple step-children and extended family from previous marriages.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Brett Merritt and sister, Sandy Fuchs.
Visitation will be Monday, June 9, 2025, from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. at Murphy-Parks Funeral Service, 703 S. Harrison Street, Shelbyville, IN 46176.
Funeral services will follow at 6 p.m. at the funeral home with Pastor Bryan Justice officiating.
The Rebecca’s and Independent Orders of Odd Fellows will conduct services at that time as well.
Interment will be in Bennett Cemetery at a later date.
Funeral Directors, Greg Parks, Sheila Parks and Stuart Parks are honored to serve Paul’s family.
Online condolences may be shared at www.murphyparks.com.
