Dustin Merrill

Dustin John Merrill, 48, passed away on July 19, 2026, in Winter Haven, Florida. Born on July 16, 1978, in Sedalia, Missouri, Dustin lived a life centered on family, love, and making memories with those he cherished most.

Dustin was the devoted husband of Christina Merrill (Phillips) and the proud father of Brayden Merrill (23), Mallory Merrill (19), Landen Merrill (17), Aubrey Dowdy (17), and McKenzie Dowdy (15). His greatest joy was spending time with his family and creating memories they would carry with them forever.

He is survived by his wife and children; his mother, Teresa Varner (Joe); his father, Robert Merrill (Maureen); his brothers, Corey Merrill (Jessica), Chase Varner (Brittany), and David Devlin; as well as several beloved nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.
Dustin was a loving and devoted husband, father, son, brother, and uncle. 

He had a kind heart, a generous spirit, and never missed an opportunity to make others laugh. He loved being on the water—whether boating on the lake or enjoying the ocean—and some of his favorite days were spent pulling his children and nephews on the tube or casting a fishing line. He was also a devoted Alabama football fan and proudly cheered, “Roll Tide!”

Dustin will be remembered for his fun-loving personality, his compassion, and the genuine care he showed to everyone around him. His legacy lives on in the love he shared, the memories he created, and the family he adored. He will be deeply missed, forever loved, and never forgotten.

Services will be Saturday, July 25, 2026, at Oak Ridge Funeral Care in Winter Haven, Florida. Visitation with family starts at 10am and service begins at 11am.