Merrit Walker was born August 31, 1942 in Homestead, PA to the late James Anderson and Loucia Mae (Kitty) Walker.  He transitioned this life on November 24, 2014 at Charles Morris Rehabilitation Center in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

Merrit received his education from the West Mifflin Area School District and graduated from Homestead Schwab Technical School in 1962.  After graduation, he was employed by Smitty's in Homestead and also worked as a parking lot attendant in Squirrel Hill.

Merrit enlisted in the United States Army, serving as a paratrooper in the 101st Airborne Division.  He received an honorable discharge for his service to his country.

Merrit met and was united in marriage to Arlene Marie on March 3, 1979.  They shared thirty-five and a half years of love and tenderness.

Merrit was employed by American Shear and Knife, Quality Services and the New Pittsburgh Courier for many years until his retirement.  After retirement, Merrit helped Marie with their family business, Walker's Bakery, in Turtle Creek, Pennsylvania.

At an early age, Merrit accepted the Lord Jesus Christ as his Savior at The First Baptist Church of West Mifflin and was baptized under the late Pastor L.L. Jefferson.  During his youth Merrit belonged to the Junior Missionary and sang in the Youth Choir.  Merrit rededicated his life to Christ and was rebaptized under Senior Pastor George A Williams.

Merrit's hobbies were racing cars, collecting model trains and displaying over 200 steel antique model cars.

Merrit leaves to cherish precious memories his beloved wife: Arlene Marie Walker; children:  James Anderson Walker (Latoya), Robert Dutrieuille, Annette Dutrieuille, James Edward Lawrence, Jr. and Lance Walker; 13 grandchildren and 4 great-grandchildren; four sisters: Delia M. Ross, Bernice Carey, Pauletta Mason, and Donna Griffin; six brothers: James Anderson Walker (Jane), Roy Walker (Lois). Melvin Walker, Paul Walker (Elaine), Larry Walker and Bill Walker.

He will be missed by his spiritual children: Rev. Lynda Black (Dwayne), Pastor Robert Cale (Virginia), Deaconess Debra Smith, Derrick Smith, Minister Tracy Covington (Dale),  and Patrice Church; many nieces, nephews, other relatives and an extended circle of friends.

Merrit was preceded in death by his parents; brother Robert Leon Walker; sister-in-law, Ruby Walker and brothers-in-law: George Ross and Richard Mason.