Joe Alfred Merrin

Joe Merrin Obituary
Joe Alfred Merrin, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and a life long member of the Plant City community, passed away peacefully on May 4, 2024, at the age of 83, in the same town where his story began on April 10, 1941. He was a man who did his best to live by the words of scripture. Born to George A. Merrin and Daisy Horne, Joe's early life in Plant City, Florida, was filled with the warmth of a close-knit family and the values of hard work and service. His sister, Kay Erwin, who predeceased him, was a beloved part of his formative years. Joe's devotion to his country was evident as he honorably served in the US Navy during the Cuban Missile Crisis, a time that shaped his character and his commitment to community service. After his military service, Joe returned to Plant City briefly, then lived in Virginia, where he worked for National airlines and met the love of his life, Marlene. Their 56-year marriage was a testament to love, partnership, and mutual respect. Together, they raised three sons—Jeff, Jason, and Jeremy—who, along with their seven grandchildren and three great-grandchildren, were Joe's pride and joy, he was also survived by numerous in-laws, nieces and nephews. He worked hard for his family, for his church, for his community, and for his faith. His reward for his hard work was the joy it brought to others. He was generous with his time and service to others. He was a dedicated member of the Noon Rotary Club and the Elks Lodge. His leadership skills shone brightly as he served the local chamber , a member of the Jaycees and a long time chairman of the Plant City Christmas Parade. His faith was a cornerstone of his life, and he served as a member and elder at the First Presbyterian Church. His commitment to spreading faith and goodwill was further exemplified through his involvement with the Gideons. Throughout his life, Joe was a very active community member, always ready to lend a hand His presence was a constant in the events and initiatives that made Plant City a better place for all. His legacy is not only in the projects he led or the organizations he supported but in the countless lives he touched with his exuberant spirit, making friends wherever he went. Joe Merrin's journey on earth has ended, but his influence will continue to ripple through the community he helped build and the family he adored. He leaves behind his devoted wife, Marlene, his sons, Jeff, Jason, and Jeremy, and a host of grandchildren and great-grandchildren who will carry forward his legacy of love, service, and community. As we bid farewell to Joe Alfred Merrin, we are reminded that the essence of a well-lived life is not in the duration but in its depth and the love shared. Joe's life was indeed a life well-lived, and he will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Friends and family will be received on Saturday May 11, 2024 from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM at First Presbyterian Church Plant City, 404 West Reynolds Street, Plant City, Florida 33563
A memorial service will follow at 2:00 PM
If so desired donations can be sent to First Presbyterian Church of Plant City.
Online condolences can be made at www.haught.care.
Funeral arrangements were trusted to Haught Funeral Home, 708 W. Dr. MLK Jr. Blvd Plant City, FL 33563, (813) 717-9300
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