AULANDER – William Merrell “Merle” White, age 78, went home to be with his Lord on Sunday, February 16, 2014. Born in Bertie County on November 10, 1935, he was the son of the late James Horace White and Abell Lassiter White. He was also preceded in death by his wife, Myrtice Manning White; brother, Ernest Roosevelt White; and grandson, Brian Keith Lassiter.

Merle was a skilled carpenter and painter by trade.  An avid outdoorsman, he enjoyed hunting and fishing.  He also liked spending time with friends playing cards.

He leaves behind his sister and caregiver, Judy White Edwards of Williamston; two daughters, Debra W. Britt and husband, Rob of Aulander, and Joanne W. Whitworth of Texas; grandchildren, Terry Lynn Lassiter II, Carla Butler, Brandon Sawyer, Victoria Young, Samantha Young, Keith Whitworth, Tyler Whitworth and Logan Whitworth; and great-grandchildren, Brianna Lassiter and Kristian Lassiter; and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

A funeral service to remember Merle will be held at 11:00 am on Wednesday, February 19, 2014 at Garrett-Sykes Funeral Service with the Rev. Roger Leggett officiating. Visitation with the family will be one hour prior to the funeral at 10 am.  Burial will follow the service at Aulander Cemetery.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude for the love and support shown by Barbara and Edward Lee Lassiter who faithfully checked in on Merle for the last six months.

Flowers are welcome or memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society, 1901 Brunswick Ave., Suite 100, Charlotte, NC, 2820, or a charity of your choice.

Funeral arrangements are provided by Garrett-Sykes Funeral Service, Ahoskie, NC.  Condolences may be sent to the White family by visiting www.garrettsykesfs.com.