Dorothy Jean Merritt

Dorothy Jean Jackson was born Jan. 10, 1938 in Parkdale, Arkansas, to Clemmie and Inez Jackson (both preceded her in death). The family moved from Arkansas to St. Louis in 1945. Dorothy accepted Christ at an early age under the leadership of the Rev. Sam Williams, pastor of New Jerusalem Missionary Baptist Church, where she was baptized. Dorothy attended Morning Star Missionary Baptist Church, where she served on the Health Unit and was a longtime member until her health failed. Dorothy graduated on June 17, 1955 from Washington Technical High School, where she majored in secretarial training, was an “A” student and a member of the National Honor Society. She married her high school sweetheart Eddie Merritt Jr. on Aug. 26, 1956. Born to their union were Nadine Monique, Patricia Ann, Madeline Yvonne and Vincent (Asa). The Merritt’s were one of the first African American families to move to University City in 1965. Dorothy worked for more than 20 years as a secretary at Belle Midwest Furniture Store, still located at 2630 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Dr. in St. Louis. She was also active in her community, having worked for political campaigns and as a devoted poll worker in many elections. Dorothy worked diligently with the 6500 Block of Corbitt Neighborhood Association. She was also active with the University City Senior Group for years, meeting at the Community Center on Pennsylvania and then at Centennial Commons. Most recently, Dorothy served on the University City Commission on Senior Issues, a position appointed by the University City Council. Dorothy raised her children to love and fear God, to have respect for themselves and others, to be loving and welcoming of people, and to possess and maintain a strong work ethic. Bigger than Dorothy’s smile was her heart, which she shared with everyone she met. She loved nothing more than talking to and caring for her family and community of friends. As her grandson Kenyatta Asante once said, “Granny, although you have been in a wheelchair for as long as I have known you, your span or reach has been farther than most, because of your love, compassion and the way you live your life and care for others.” Indeed, Dorothy created community wherever she went, never tiring of doing what she loved most – loving people. She was an awesome mother, an amazing sister, a precious aunt, a treasured grandmother, a wonderful friend and a respected community member. She is preceded in death by one daughter, Nadine Merritt Herndon, two brothers, Clemmie Jackson Jr. and Willie Edward Jackson; and two sisters Geraldine Jackson and Gloria Lathon. She is survived by two daughters, Patricia Merritt and Madeline Merritt; a son, Asa (Dana/Assata) Asante Merritt; two sisters, Evelyn Jackson and Carol Ann (Kenneth) Lloyd; a brother, Larry Jackson; five grandchildren, Wallace Herndon Jr., Kenyatta Imani Asante, Chilembwe Djassi Asante, Chimerenga Akili Asante and Sidney Ture' Washington; four nephews, Eric (Cheryl) Jackson, Tony (Artina) Lloyd; Brian (Tammy) Lloyd and Rodney Martin; two nieces, Linda Faye (Edward) Moffett and Pam Lathon; two goddaughters, Rosalind Renee and Elise Oates; three godsons, Dr. Steven Veal, Gary Boyd and Scipio Crowder; and a host of friends and loved ones.

Dorothy Jean Merritt

January 10, 1938 - June 5, 2020