April Noel Merritt

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of April Noel Merritt, a beloved daughter, sister, mother, and friend, on February 2nd, 2026. She was 59 years old.

April was born on December 25th, 1966 to Hubert Merritt, Jr. and Lynn Merritt(deceased) in Clinton, North Carolina. During April’s younger years, she grew up in Warsaw, however, her family relocated to Mocksville, Waynesboro, Va., Sanford, and Kinston where she graduated high school. After high school, April attended James Sprunt Community College where she obtained an Associate of Arts degree. Following graduating from James Sprunt Community College, April attended the University of Mount Olive where she received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology. April is preceded in death by her mother Lynn Merritt.

April is survived by her son Merritt Long of Clinton, NC, son Walker Long (Kaya) of Fort Campbell, Ky, father Hubert Merritt, Jr. of Warsaw, NC, sister Tracy Merritt, of Wendell, NC, brother Jeff Merritt (Karen) of Warsaw, NC,bonus sister Lorrie Kester of Princeton, NC, best friend Christy Aldridge of Kenansville, NC along with a huge number of nieces and nephews and grand-nieces and grand-nephews in which she truly loved.

April was a member of the Warsaw Baptist Church and attended other local churches throughout the community with her family and friends. She will be remembered for the love she had for her family, her churches, and her friends

A memorial service to celebrate April Merritt's life will be held on February 9th, 2026 at the Warsaw Baptist Church. Friends and family will have an opportunity to visit with April's family at 12:00pm on February 9th in Powell Hall at the Warsaw Baptist Church and the memorial service will be at 1:00pm in the sanctuary of the church. Burial will follow in Devotional Gardens. We invite friends and family to join us honoring the memory of her remarkable life. Pastor David Gasperson and Rev. Joy Alford (April’s Friend) will be officiating the service.

We would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to the medical professionals and caregivers who provided comfort and support during April’s final days. As we say our final goodbye to April, may we find solace in the knowledge that her love and legacy will forever live on in our hearts.

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