Russell K. Merrin

Russell K. Merrin, age 74, passed into eternity with the Lord Jesus Christ on December 29, 2022, due to heart failure. He heroically fought chronic myeloid leukemia since 1999. Russell was born in Fredericktown, OH, to Richard Merrin and Charlotte Diehl. He is survived by his wife, Norma Buckles, of forty-three years, and his daughter, Monica Vernot (spouse - James Vernot) and son, Derek Merrin; his brother, Keith Merrin (spouse Sue) and sister, Sonya Martin (spouse Jerry). His grandchildren, Gideon, Matthew and Molly Vernot were treasures to him. He loved his nieces and nephews dearly. He graduated from Capital University in Ohio and completed a Masters of Divinity at Liberty Baptist Seminary.

Russell gave testimony that his life changes at 24, when he repented of his sin, and by faith, trusted Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord. He passionately shared the Gospel of Christ with people of all walks of life. He pastored Monclova Road Baptist Church in Monclova, OH for 23 years. He and his wife founded Monclova Christian Academy in 1999. Additionally, Pastor Merrin founded a church in Long Island, NY and Columbus, OH. His TV and radio ministries reached countless people with the Gospel and sound Biblical teaching.

He loved his country and was a defender of freedom. Russell was a loving husband and devoted father to his children. He was known for his generosity, kindness, and mercy to those he encountered. His humor was enjoyed by all who knew him. Russell Merrin will be remembered as a soldier for Jesus Christ who will never be forgotten by his family and those he pastored. His last request to all was "be ready; for in such an hour as ye think not the Son of man cometh."

A Memorial viewing and funeral will be held at Redemption Church, located at 8605 Salisbury Road, Monclova, OH 43542. The viewing will be on Friday, January 6, 2023 from 4:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. The Celebration Service will follow on Saturday, January 7, 2023 at 10:00 a.m. Flowers can be sent to Newcomer Funeral Home 4752 Heatherdowns Blvd., Toledo, OH 43614. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Gideons.org/donate

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