Fred Earl Merrifield
Fred Earl Merrifield
Fred Earl Merrifield, passed away on March 27, 2026, at his sons house with his children and siblings by his side in Kynesville, Florida, at the age of 66. Born on March 10, 1960, in Pontiac, Illinois, he lived a life marked by hard work, humor, and a gift for bringing people together through his stories, laughter, and easygoing spirit.
Fred graduated from Marianna High School in 1978. He was truly a jack of all trades and was known as a talented farmer, a gifted storyteller, and a natural entertainer. Whether he was working with his hands, sharing a memory, or making others laugh, Fred approached life with a practical heart and a lively sense of humor that left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him. To know him was to love him.
He loved the outdoors and found joy in many simple pleasures. Hunting, fishing, searching for Indian artifacts, and spending time at the beach were among the things he enjoyed most. Fred also had a deep love for animals, especially his dog, Willy, who was a faithful companion. His appreciation for nature and the outdoors reflected the way he lived his life, with patience, curiosity, and a genuine enjoyment of the world around him.
Fred was of the Methodist faith, and his life reflected the christian values of kindness, fellowship, and devotion that were important to him.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Paul Eugene Merrifield and Evelyn Duncan Merrifield, as well as his brothers, Don and Bob Merrifield. Fred is survived by his children, Mark Merrifield, John Merrifield, and Mallory Purvis and husband, Brandon; his brother, Jim Merrifield; his sister, Jackie Pelt and husband, Alan; and his grandchildren, Liam and Lawson Merrifield, John Michael Merrifield, and Adaline and Oliver Purvis. He is also survived by a host of cherished friends who will dearly miss his love, laughter, and storytelling.
Funeral services will be 11 A.M. Monday, March 30, 2026 at Marianna Chapel Funeral Home. Fred will be laid to rest following the service in Pinecrest Memorial Gardens with Marianna Chapel Funeral Home directing.
The family will receive friends for visitation one hour prior to the service at Marianna Chapel Funeral Home.
Those serving as pallbearers will be: Mark Merrifield, John Merrifield, Ryan Pelt, Chris Pelt, Jim Merrifield, Jason Merrifield, Alan Pelt and Brandon Purvis.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in memory of Fred to Emerald Coast Hospice at 3015 Jefferson St. Suite C. Marianna, FL 32446 or Partners for Pets at 4011 Maintenance Dr. Marianna, FL 32448.
The family would like to express their sincere appreciation to the staff at Emerald Coast Hospice and Dr. John Brunner and staff at Internal Medicine.
Funeral Arrangements are entrusted to the Lambe Family at Marianna Chapel Funeral Home. Condolences may be made online at www.mariannachapelfh.com