William Dwayne Merritt

William Dwayne Merritt Sr., age 83, formerly of Cherokee Village, Arkansas, passed away on September 20, surrounded by family. He was born July 7, 1941 in St.Louis, Mo., the son of Willie and Vernon Merritt. Dwayne moved to Blytheville, AR as a young child graduating from Blytheville High School, class of 1959.

Dwayne married Carolyn Hollinger on July 2, 1960. They celebrated 62 years of marriage before her passing in 2023.

Dwayne served 30 years with the Memphis Police Department before retiring as a Captain in 1995.   He started his career as a patrol officer advancing to a homicide detective, ending his tenure training recruits at the MPD academy. One of the personal highlights of his career was as a player/coach for the MPD men’s national basketball championship teams for 14 years.  Upon retirement, he loved spending time with his grandchildren.  Attending their sports events, activities and making memories on their retirement lake home in Cherokee Village. Dwayne was a member of First Baptist Church Cherokee Village, AR.

Dwayne is preceded in death by his wife Carolyn, his son William Dwayne Merritt Jr. and son in law Charles Johnson.  He is survived by his daughter Kim (Kenny) Owsley, Piperton, TN.   Daughter in law Marie Cravens Merritt, Cordova, TN.  Grandchildren, Blake Johnson, Meagan Bennett, Trey Johnson, Casey Merritt and Dr. Ryan Merritt. Great grandchildren Asher Bennett and Gunner Bennett.

Private family services will be held at Jonesboro Memorial Park with Pastor Larry White officiating.