Obituary of Jessica Lynn Merritt

Mrs. Jessica Lynn Merritt, age 36 a resident of Bartow, Florida passed away Thursday, February 23, 2023 at Winter Haven Hospital surrounded by her family. Mrs. Merritt was born July 7, 1986 in Winter Haven, Florida to Donnie Ray and Sherry Lynn (Morehead) Hale. She was a lifetime Polk County resident and graduated from Auburndale High School Class of 2004 also volunteering in the AHS preschool. She was a homemaker, worked part time for APAC and Wal Mart. Jessica attended Gospel Tabernacle Church in Auburndale. She enjoyed playing softball (pitcher), singing, writing, reading, riding 4 wheelers and spending time with her family. She was preceded in death by her paternal grandparents – Edward & Bonnie Hale; maternal grandparents – Sharlene Morehead & Larry Morehead and mother in law – Sandy Nelson. Jessica is survived by her loving & devoted family, husband of 17 years – Todd Merritt; 2 sons – Austin Merritt & Adam Merritt; daughter – Melissa Merritt; father – Donnie Ray Hale; mother – Sherry Lynn Bell; brother – Jacob Hale; 3 sisters – Jenna Hale, Jade Hale & Jaycee Hale; 3 uncles – Doyle, George & Benji and 3 aunts – Darla, Terrie & Amy. Funeral services will be held 11:00 am Tuesday, February 28th at Kersey Funeral Home with visitation beginning at 10:00 am at the funeral home. Interment will follow at Auburndale Memorial Park.