George “Buddy” William Merritt, age 80, passed away on Wednesday, April 27, 2022, at his residence. He was a very loving and devoted husband and father. He was born on August 11, 1941, in Harlan County, Kentucky. George attended St. Mary’s school on 13th and Clay Streets, from 1948-1956, in Cincinnati, Ohio. He later attended Purcell High School, from 1956-1960, where he graduated. From 1961-1966, George served in the U.S. Air Force, during the Cuban missile crisis and the John F. Kennedy assassination. He spent 1968-1977 at Northern Kentucky University, earning his bachelor’s degree. George lived next to Jim’s café, where Dottie Mack, Bob Shreve, & the Pantomime Hit Parade hung out. He met one of his best friends at the Paradise Club, Russell Givens, who was a famous bass player of rhythm and blues. On June 19, 1976, George married Mary Jo Sauer at Holy Cross Church in Latonia, Kentucky. Russell and his all-black band, “The Kin Folk”, played at their reception, which was held at the Grandview Gardens, in Newport, Kentucky. On August 4, 1979, George and Mary welcomed their son, George Dayton Merritt. They enjoyed many years together, before his passing in 2017. In his spare time, George enjoyed music, singing, dancing, walking, reading, and working in the yard. He is survived by his sisters Joann Blanton, Sherma Dunn, Joyce Blakey, Janet Williams, Doris Moore, Nancy Bridewell, Judith Merritt, and brother Dayton Merritt. George was preceded in death by his son, Georgie, grandparents Thomas and Cordelia Goodin, parents Howard T. and Lena Mary {Goodin} Merritt, and sister Willene Peters. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that memorial contributions be made to Cincinnati Children’s Hospital or the American Cancer Society.
(513) 231-2000 Cincinnati, OH
(859) 261-8560 Newport, KY
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In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that memorial contributions be made to Cincinnati Children's Hospital or the American Cancer Society.
Susan Park says
April 29, 2022 at 1:51 amwas so sorry to hear this news…condolences Susie Park n family
Vicki Burke says
May 1, 2022 at 4:04 amSO SO VERY SORRY MARY JO!
Gloria Powers says
May 5, 2022 at 1:00 pmBuddy had a great life. He also had a wonderful wife and son to enjoy it with. So sorry for your loss Mary Jo.
Cathy Ahlbrand says
May 1, 2022 at 4:52 amI’ve known Buddy my entire life, has been a good son, brother, husband and wonderful Father his entire life. I know he’s up there dancing with Granny and Georgie. RIP Buddy. And God Bless you Mary Jo.
Gary / Karen Carlisle says
May 1, 2022 at 5:07 amSo sorry for your loss. You are in our thoughts and prayers…
John & Susan Fischesser says
May 1, 2022 at 8:24 pmMary Jo, you have Susan and my condolences for your loss. Be happy with knowing that he is now with Georgie and the happiest he can be. We will always be here for you.
Your good friends forever.