Riley James Merritt Obituary

The memory of Riley James Merritt (Wilmington, North Carolina), who passed away on March 21, 2025 at the age of 24, will forever remain in the hearts of those touched by this precious presence in their lives. Family and friends are welcome to leave their condolences on this memorial page and share them with the family.

Though his name may fade from the lips of time, the imprint Riley James leaves upon the hearts of his loved ones remains eternally vivid — a testament to the depth of his spirit and the richness of his legacy.

He was predeceased by: his grandfather Joseph Martin Zimmerman. He is survived by: his son Jaxon Thomas Merritt; his parents, James Thomas Merritt and Catharine Zimmerman Merritt; his brothers, Joseph Graham "Gray" Merritt (Jordan Pipkin) and Gillon Christopher Merritt; and his grandparents, Brenda Zimmerman Deal (David Deal), Graham Eugene Merritt Sr. and Barbara Ann Merritt. He is also survived by numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, and an extended circle of friends.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in memory of Riley to a trust for Jaxon Thomas Merritt.