On October 14, 2023 Richard L. Merriman went to be with his Lord and Saviour.

Rick was born in Buffalo, NY, and raised in West Seneca, NY, as the only child of Harold Eugene Merriman and Lorana Matilda Merriman. He is survived by his wife Gloria, and their son, Ryan Merriman, and by several cousins.

Rick is preceded in death by his parents, a close Uncle Lee and Aunt Doris Merriman and their son, Dennis, as well as other aunts and uncles.

Rick was a member and ruling elder at a congregation of the Presbyterian Church in America. He graduated with a Diploma in Bible from Bob Jones University and a B.A. Degree in Education from Shelton College. It was there he met his wife, Gloria. For most of their 47 years of marriage they lived in Cape May County, NJ until recently moving to West Virginia. Rick had finally retired in February 2023 from his position as Addictions Counselor for ARS (Addiction Recovery Systems) of Cape May Court House, NJ, where he also enjoyed responsibilities as Recovery Court Liaison.

Earlier work responsibilities include his position of Middle School Principal at Cape Christian Academy where he additionally coached the High School Soccer Team, leading them to Conference Championship one year. He also held the position of Family Therapist at Cumberland County Guidance Center for several years.

In addition to singing with their church congregation, Rick and his wife Gloria very much enjoyed performing with the Masterworks Choir and Orchestra in Ocean City, NJ.

Rick was a loving father and husband and is remembered by friends and family for his sense of humor, organizational skills, attention to detail, faithfulness in every task, and for his commitment and loyalty to his God, his family, his community, and his country.

Rick had a difficult time deciding to retire at the age of 76 because he still loved working to assist people in overcoming difficulties in their lives. He would often hear his clients repeat back to him his own phrases, such as “Do the right thing and you’ll have the right outcome.”

Some basic principles Rick lived by:
“If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not [without finding fault]; and it shall be given him.” James 1:5
“For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast.” Ephesians 2:8-9
“For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” John 3:16
“Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God [revere and worship Him, knowing that He is] and keep His commandments: for this is the whole duty of man.” Ecclesiastes 12:13

Services for Rick will be private.