Elaine Merritt

Elaine Smith Merritt passed away on Sunday, February 2, 2025, at Bedford Memorial Hospital. Born on September 9, 1931, in Lynchburg, VA, to Roy and Dorothy Parker Smith, she is survived by her daughter Sandra Merritt, brother Clarence (Helen) Smith, and nephews Keith and Kevin McClain. She was predeceased by her parents, sister Doris McClain (Robert), brother Roy Smith (Jean), and husband Royal Merritt.

She was baptized at a young age at Court Street Baptist Church in Lynchburg, where she remained a devoted member until her illness.

After high school, Elaine attended Meharry Medical College in New York and worked there for several years. She furthered her nursing studies at Tennessee State in Nashville Tennessee becoming a registered nurse. In Lynchburg, she was hired as Director of Nursing at St. John's Nursing Home and later worked at Lynchburg General Hospital (LGH) in the Intensive Care and Post-surgical units. Elaine made history as the first Black person promoted to LGH Evening Supervisor of Nursing. After retiring, she dedicated her time to volunteering, driven by her passion to help others.

Elaine's legacy is one of kindness and resilience. As a devoted mother, she consistently provided support, wisdom, and love. Elaine was well-regarded by many for her compassion, love, and steadfast faith in God. Her passing has created a profound void in the hearts of her family, friends, and countless others whose lives she touched.

Service will be held at Tharp Funeral Home, 220 Breezewood Drive, Lynchburg, VA 24502 on Saturday, February 8, 2025, at 2:30 pm. The family will receive friends 1 hour before the service.

Tharp Funeral Home & Crematory, Lynchburg is assisting the family.