Merrill J. Epps

MERRILL J. EPPS, JR was born on August 27,1943, the eldest son of Merrill Sr. and Thelma Epps, departed this life for eternal rest on Monday, April 9, 2012. Merrill was one of the first African-American males to graduate from Baltimore Polytechnic High School in 1962. After graduation he entered into the United States Navy and served for five years. On July 25, 1970 Merrill married his childhood sweetheart, Phyllis “Toni” Of this union two boys were born, Michael Jerrod and Marco Jarrod Epps. In 1976 he became a proud member of Prince Hall Mason, William F. Taylor, Lodge #57, where he served as financial secretary for eight years. And King David #1 Royal Arch Brother Epps loved being a master mason. They will forever be all of us dear in his heart. He received his certification in Construction Technology in 1984 and his associates of Arts Degree in 1985.Bro Epps received Christ as his personal Savior at an early age and was a faithful member of Memorial Baptist Church where he also served as a deacon. He was employed by Motors for ten years and retired in 2006. Merrill was full of life. He would encourage everyone who entered into his home to immediately come to the basement to see his variety of exotic fish collection. He was an excellent cook. Everyone loved his steamed crabs during the summer He loved gardening, Everyone would also look forward to his tomatoes during the summer He could construct and fix just about anything. Whether it was the computer or cabinets in the kitchen, he could do it all. He was always willing and able to assist anyone at anytime. Merrill loved jazz and classical music. He could watch western T V shows all day long. To the very end, Merrill marched to the beat of his own drum. And for all of us who loved Merrill, we know that like Frank Sinatra, he too did HIS WAY . To cherish his memory, he leaves to mourn; his wife Phyllis “Toni” two sons, Michael and Marco (one son preceded him in death, Merrill Epps, III one daughter Thelma “Wendy” Apps-Blake; six grandchildren, DaJanique, Bria, Michael, Jr Jacob, Elijah and Christopher; one great-grandson, Jaiden; one daughter-in-law, Sabrina Epps; one sister, Diana Epps; one brother Drewerey Epps four sisters-in-law, Toni Stanford, Gloria Stanford, Renee Stanford and Dr. Ditra S. Scruggs, brother-in-law, Jeff Scruggs, as well as a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends who were very dear too

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Merrill J. Epps

August 27, 1943 - April 9, 2012