Ms. Lucille (Momma Cille), born December 20th, 1932 to the late Frank B. and June Etta Watkins Merritt, departed her earthly life to be with the Lord on Monday evening, May 22, 2017.
Preceding her in death, her sister Cora Simmons, three brothers David, Frank, and Robert Merritt, two sons James (Boot) Merritt and Robert O’Neal.
A funeral service will be held Sunday, May 28, 2017 at 1:00 P.M. in the Montlawn Funeral Home chapel. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service, from 12:00 – 1:00 P.M., at the funeral home.
Ms. Lucille served on the usher board at Corinth United Church of Christ where she became a member at an early age. She was also a member of the Order of the Eastern Star, Top Stone Chapter #577, where she served as Worthy Matron and various other roles for several years.
Ms. Lucille retired from the State of North Carolina in 1995, after many years of working as a custodian at North Carolina State University and the State Employment Security Commission. As a single parent, she also worked various part-time jobs, such as a cook and housekeeper, to provide for her children and grandchildren.
She leaves to mourn her loving memory and compassion, her brother, Louis Merritt of Wake Forest, N.C. six children, Norman Ray O’Neal, Greensboro, N.C. Linda O’Neal, Raleigh N.C., David (Joe) O’Neal of the home, Sherron O’Neal, Raleigh, N.C, Larry O’Neal, Raleigh, N.C and Fanchon O’Neal of the home. One step - daughter, Arlene (James) Estes, of Wake Forest, North Carolina. Twelve grandchildren, sixteen great grandchildren, one daughter in-law, one son in-law, two sister in-laws, a host of nieces, nephews and close family and friends.
Momma Cille enjoyed gardening, cooking, celebrating holidays and spending time with her family and friends. Everyone that entered her home was greeted with a warm smile which made you instantly feel like a part of the family. She will be truly missed.
There is no greater love than the love of our dear mother and we will cherish every memory and moment we have shared with her.
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