Joyce V. Merritt

Joyce V. Merritt, 88, of Chattanooga, Tenn., (native of North Little Rock, Ark.) died December 26, 2019 after a lengthy period of trauma. A graduate of North Little Rock High School and Lyon College, she did her graduate work with the hearing impaired. Joyce's family moved to Chattanooga in 1966 and quickly became "natives." She was active in the Hickory Valley Garden Club, Tennessee Federation of Garden Clubs, a lifelong Presbyterian, Star Twirlers Square Dance Club, a Mary Kay Beauty Consultant, and a 53 year resident of Brainerd Hills. Joyce is survived by her husband of 65 years, Robert (Bob) J. Merritt; three sons, Mark (Janie), Lyle (Tillie), and Glenn Merritt; sister, Gail Ervin; and brother, Larry Shilloutt; one grandson, Zachary Merritt. Services will be held at 3 p.m., Thursday, January 2, 2020 in the funeral home chapel with Rev. Lina Hart officiating. A private graveside burial will be held Friday at the Chattanooga National Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the Chattanooga Food Bank or a charity of your choice. Visit www.heritagechattanooga.com to share condolences to the family. The family will receive friends Thursday, January 2 from 1-3 p.m., at Heritage Funeral Home, 7454 E. Brainerd Road.