Benjamin Merritt

Benjamin Michael Merritt, 34, of Barnhart, died on November 10, 2023, after being tragically murdered in a road rage incident. Benjamin, known as “Benny” or “Ben”, was born January 11, 1989, and proudly celebrated five years of sobriety on August 15, 2023. He was living his best life, managing his landscape and lawncare business, and lovingly raising two beautiful children with his fiancée, whom he deeply loved.

He is survived by his loving partner, Samantha “Sam” Cross; son, Grant and daughter, Piper; mother, Nancy (Merritt) McLean and her husband Mark; loving grandparents, Benny D. “Papa” and Wanda “Nana” Merritt; aunt Lori, affectionately known as “Sissy” and uncle, David Allen; cousins, Taylor Nifong, Sarah (Allen) and husband Zachary Cinq-Mars, and Emily Allen; Samantha’s mom, Mary Cross; and sisters, Stephanie and Taylor; nephew, Alex; and special friend and lawn care buddy, Roland.

Benjamin was preceded in death by his great-grandparents, William “Bill” and Effie Merritt, Leo and Blanche McWilliams; caring great-aunt, Shirley Langley; and Samantha’s father, Bill Cross.

Benny took great pride in his lawncare business, Merritt Landscape and Lawncare, LLC. He was a devoted and caring father, loving partner, son, grandson, nephew, cousin, “brother,” and friend to many. He often donated his lawn services to those who could not afford it.

Every life is precious, every life deserves love and support and always appreciate a nicely cut lawn.

Visitation will be held at C.Z. Boyer and Son Funeral Home in Desloge, Monday, November 20, 2023, from 11:00 AM until the service time of 1:00 PM.