Hoyt Allen Merritt,

Access RoadHoyt Allen Merritt, Jr., of Covington, formerly of Decatur, passed away January 12, 2012, at the age of 63. He was a dedicated employee of UPS, and retired after 31 years of faithful service. Mr. Merritt was a U.S. Army veteran, having served his country in both Korea and Vietnam. During his service in Vietnam, he was awarded the Vietnam Service Medal, with five bronze stars, and his unit was awarded a Meritorious Unit Citation. For his service in Korea, he was honored with an Armed Force Expeditionary Medal. Survivors include his loving wife of 41 years, Nanette J. Merritt; daughter and son-in-law, Sandra and Scott Wheeler of Covington; sons and daughter-in-law, Shawn and Anna Merritt of Hampton, Shay Merritt of Covington; parents, Hoyt, Sr., and Edna Merritt of Decatur; brothers and sister-in-law, Teddy and Becky Merritt of Jackson, Tony Merritt of Decatur; grandchildren, Shawna Wheeler, Joshua Merritt, Savannah Merritt, Gabriel Merritt; several nieces and nephews. A Cryptside Service for Mr. Merritt will be held Monday, January 16, 2012, 1:00 PM, at the Memory Chapel Mausoleum in Lawnwood Memorial Park, with Chaplain Leslie Nelson officiating. The family will receive friends at Caldwell & Cowan Funeral Home, 1215 Access Road, in Covington, Sunday, January 15, from 5:00-7:00 PM. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Our Lady of Perpetual Help, 760 Pollard Boulevard SW, Atlanta, GA 30315.