David Leon Merit

David L. Merit, age 73, passed away peacefully at his home in Biloxi on May 29, 2026 following a protracted battle with metastatic prostate cancer.

Born on July 12, 1952, in Miami, OK to Mr. and Mrs. Donald L. Merit, David lived a life defined by service, dedication, and love for his family. He proudly served his country for 21 years in the United States Air Force. During his military career, he met the love of his life, Dinah, while stationed in Misawa, Japan beginning a lifelong partnership filled with devotion and shared memories.

Following his retirement from the Air Force, David continued his commitment to serving others through his work with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.

David was deeply passionate about emerging technologies, weather forecasting, and above all, spending time with his family. He will be remembered for his curiosity, intelligence, sense of humor, and the love he gave so freely to those around him.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Dinah Merit; his children, Dustin Merit and wife Allison Merit, and Dana Merit; and his cherished grandchildren, Zachary Irby and wife Kimberly Irby, Raven Petersen and husband Alex Petersen, Christopher White, Callie Merit, Courtlynn White, Sadie Merit, and great-granddaughter Magnolia Petersen.

In addition to those who survived him, Dave held a special place in his heart for his first great-grandchild, who preceded him in death, Beckham Blaine Irby, son of Zachary and Kimberly Irby.

David’s legacy of service, kindness, and dedication to family will continue to live on in all who knew and loved him.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, June 2, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. A funeral service will be held on Wednesday, June 3, 2026, at 11:30 a.m., with friends invited to visit one hour prior, all at Bradford-O'Keefe Funeral Home on Howard Avenue in Biloxi. Interment will follow at Biloxi National Cemetery.

Bradford-O'Keefe Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of David L. Merit.