James Allan Merritt

James Allan Merritt, age 61, passed away on May 28^th following a short and courageous battle with cancer.  He was surrounded by his family.  Jim was born February 9^th, 1955 to JT and Mittie Merritt in Brownfield Texas.  Jim spent his childhood in Alabama and the west Texas area, graduating from Patton Springs High School in Afton Texas in 1973.  He later attended South Plains College in Levelland Texas, and Texas Tech University in Lubbock Texas.  He was fortunate to have spent his life working in a field he loved, the commercial construction industry, and was known for his knowledge and professionalism.

Jim was a hands on kind of guy who was known for his ability to fix anything.  He was always eager to help a friend, day or night.

Jim Married Sherry Monty on June 12, 1982.  Their marriage was blessed with three children.  Jim and Sherry remained close friends throughout their lives.

In 1992, Jim relocated to Ridgway Colorado with his family.  He later moved to Montrose, where he spent the remainder of his life.  Jim was an avid outdoorsman, and enjoyed the Colorado mountains to their fullest.  He enjoyed spending time with his family, especially his children and granddaughter.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents.  He is survived by his three children, Jimmy (wife Laura), Lindsay, and Zachary Merritt, all of Montrose, their mother, Sherry Merritt, and his granddaughter Emma Merritt, also of Montrose.  He is also survived by one brother, DeWayne Merritt of Lamesa Texas, and three sisters; JoAnne Merritt Squires of Lubbock Texas, Tricia Davis of Hereford Texas, and Sandy Johnson of Lamesa Texas.

Memorial services, to honor the life of Jim will be held on Saturday June 4^th, at the old white church at the Museum of the Mountain West, at 1:00 pm (68169 Miami Road).  Friends and family are welcome to join in remembering a great man. Condolences may be made to the family at www.crippinfuneralhome.com.  Crippin Funeral Home is assisting the family.