Edith Wells Merritt

Edith Wells Merritt of Wallace, passed from her earthly life on the early morning of Monday, March 9, 2026, while at the home of her son in Wallace. Born on December 10, 1943, she is the daughter of the late Henry Z. Wells, Sr. and Annie Mae Knowles Wells. She is also preceded in death by siblings—Henry Z. “HZ” Wells, Jr., James “Jay” Wells, Frank Wells, Betty Wells Brown, Louise Wells Murray, and Annie Ruth Wells Evans.

Left to cherish her memory are her son—Joseph Reaves Merritt II and wife Rhonda Ranae of Wallace; grandchildren—Katherine Evans Tucker and husband Chris of Front Royal (VA), Samantha Nicole Smith and husband Christian of Willard, Kayla Ranae Sumner and husband Matthew of Pink Hill, and Bruce Christopher Penny and wife Bertha of California; eight great grandchildren; special friends—David Mike McCall of Pikeville and Robert “Chuck” Alred of Nakina (NC); and numerous nieces and nephews.

Edith enjoyed getting away on trips with family and friends as often as she could. She took several bus trips and enjoyed her time away. She also loved gathering the family together and visiting over a good meal. Family was very important to her. She was close to everyone in her Sunday School class as well and loved attending her church when she was able. She is known in the community for her time spent at the White House Café, Circle R Pizza, Go-Gas, and Honeycutt Pawn.

A service to celebrate the life of Mrs. Edith is set for 2:00 p.m. on Thursday, March 12, 2026, in the chapel of Padgett Funeral Home with visitation prior to the service at 1:00 p.m. Interment will follow the service in Riverview Memorial Park in Watha. Officiating will be Pastor Rodney Humphrey.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in memory of Mrs. Merritt to the Wallace Fire Association.