Adrian V. Merritt, 73 of Jacksonville, Florida passed away Monday, March 12, 2018 at Baptist Hospital. Adrian was a lifelong resident of both Jacksonville Beach and Jacksonville, he graduated from Fletcher High School and attended Troy State (Troy University), majoring in History and Fine Art. Adrian began his career with CSX Railroad, eventually joined the family contracting business and ended his career as a high school art teacher – which brought him immense joy! Adrian was a devout Christian, he loved his family to the moon and back, took great pleasure in reading, painting, pottery, sailing and working on cars and motorcycles. Adrian was a jack of all trades and very accomplished at repairing almost anything however, his true happiness was being a Papa to his five grandchildren. The family would like to extend our sincere appreciation to the amazing group of compassionate doctors and nurses at Baptist Hospital's Emergency Department and the care team at MD Anderson.

Survivors include his loving wife of 50 years, Vivian Chao Merritt; 3 Children - Lydia Roberts (Chris), Cathleen "C.C." Collett (Gene), and Shane Merritt; 5 Grandchildren - Stevey Roberts (Father – Matt), Keanan Maurice, Chase Merritt, Tristan Collett and Aviana Merritt; Mother In-Law, Benita Chao, Sister In-law's - Shirley Vause, Esther Sugarman (Steve); Nieces – Vicki Harris (Fred), Heather Correia, in addition to cousins and friends. Adrian was preceded in death by his father, Cline E. Merritt; mother, Emily Branch Merritt; brother, William Vause; and Father In-law, Jack Chao. Pallbearers will be his son's, Shane Merritt, Gene Collett, Chris Wonsch; Grandsons, Keanan Maurice, Chase Merritt and Lee Sanders.

Funeral Services for Adrian V. Merritt will be held at 2:00pm Friday, March 16, 2018 at Arlington Park Funeral Home and Cemetery (6920 Lone Star Rd. Jacksonville, Fl. 32211), with Father Jose Kulathinal officiating, graveside. The family will receive friends who wish to pay their final respects, prior to the funeral, from 12:00pm – 1:30pm, Friday March 16, 2018 at Arlington Park Funeral Home.