Deborah Jean (Hadley) Merriss

It is with profound sadness, yet enduring gratitude for a life well-lived, that we announce the peaceful passing of Deborah Jean (Hadley) Merriss on May 14, 2026. Deborah, known affectionately as Debbie, was born on June 14, 1955, in Fort Bragg, North Carolina. She was the beloved daughter of the late Jack and Mary Louise Hadley. Debbie’s life was a testament to love, resilience, and service. As a child of a military family, she embraced the role of a caregiver early on, helping to raise her siblings through their many relocations. This nurturing spirit was a hallmark of her character, one that she carried throughout her life. Debbie met the love of her life, Kenneth "Kenny" Merriss, and they were married on December 31, 1976, in Evansville, Indiana. Together, they built a life filled with warmth, joy, and laughter for nearly 50 years. Their union was blessed with four wonderful children: Jason (Shana) Merriss, Lindsey Merriss, Chelsea (Ryan) Robyck, and Todd (Ashley) Merriss. The family grew to include five cherished grandchildren: Preston, Chase, Noah, Aiden, Journie, and RJ, all of whom brought immense pride and happiness to Debbie’s life. A graduate of Central High School in Evansville, Indiana, Debbie furthered her education at Gulf Coast State College, earning her AA degree. Her passion for nature and people found a perfect home during her many years of work at St. Andrews State Park. There, she delighted in searching for turtle nest, and cherished the conversations with park guests, sharing her love for the Gulf of Mexico’s beauty. Beyond her professional life, Debbie was a woman of many talents and interests. She found joy in the simple pleasures of life: the soothing sands of the Gulf, crafting, sewing, and the vibrant beauty of blue hydrangeas. Her long playlists, filled with the voices of amazing artists, were often the background to family gatherings, where she found her greatest joy. Debbie was predeceased by her parents, her brother Mark Hadley, her sister Terry Nutt, and brother-in-law James Moseley. She leaves behind her devoted husband Kenny, her children and grandchildren, and her loving siblings: Gail Hadley, Patricia Moseley, Joan Hadley, Lisa Murner (Jim), John Hadley (Mary), and Russell Hadley (Terri). Her legacy of love and compassion will continue to inspire all who knew her. Debbie's life was a testament to the power of love, family, and the simple joys that connect us all. Her gentle spirit and unwavering kindness will be deeply missed but never forgotten. Rest in peace, dear Debbie, knowing that your life made a positive impact on all who were fortunate enough to know you.