Merritta Waits Johnson

   Merritta Bell Waits Johnson, 87, of Wake Forest, NC, and former longtime resident of the Morgan’s Corner-Newland community of Pasquotank County, passed away Saturday, February 10, 2024 in Sentara Albemarle Medical Center, Elizabeth City.

   Born in Denver, CO on June 15, 1936, she was the daughter of the late Alfred Carl Francis Waits and Duella Mae Heartwell Waits. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her sisters, Madora, Ardith, Theta, and Roberta, a brother, Charlie; and by canine companions, Buster and Bella.

   A retired correctional officer, she was a former member of the South Mills Chapter of the Order of the Eastern Star where she had been very active and served in various capacities over the years.

   Surviving are her two daughters, Tammy Jean Bryan (Jim) of Wake Forest and Doris Vann Johnson of Raleigh; her son, Bradly James Johnson (Eva) of South Mills; five grandchildren, Travis Johnson, Kallie Wulfkuhle (Nick), Jordan Bryan (Christine), Meghan Lucas (Zach), and Morgan Johnson (Brandon); five great-grandchildren, Ellie, Kade, Isaac, Avery, and Taegan; her special niece and best friend, Cheryl Lipe; and other nieces, nephews, and extended family members.

   A memorial service will be held Saturday, February 24, at 11:00 a.m. in Trinity Methodist Church, 104 Main Street, South Mills, and will be conducted by Pastor Wayne Wood. Friends may visit with the family in the fellowship hall of the church immediately following the service.

   In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to any chapter of one’s local humane society.

   Miller & Van Essendelft Funeral Home, 1125 Harvey Point Road, Hertford, is assisting the family with arrangements and online condolences may be made by visiting www.millerfhc.com.