Patricia Sue Merritt

On Friday, May 8, 2026, Patricia Sue Merritt pulled her last weed and entered the eternal presence of her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Her family gives thanks for her long life and for the love, warmth, and generosity she shared with so many.

Patricia was born on February 16, 1939, in Columbus, Indiana, to Kenneth and Esther (Littiken) Wilbur. She was blessed to grow up rooted in her large and loving extended family.

Patricia was an avid gardener who found joy in nurturing flowers and coaxing beauty from the soil. Her garden was full of color, character, and the occasional plant that survived only because she was too stubborn to let it die.

She also loved thrift shopping, delighting in simple treasures and practical finds, often with the thought of blessing others as much as herself. She and her husband, Dick, shared an interest in antique hunting, and she especially liked collecting all manner of glassware, pottery, and ceramic kissing angels.

Famous for saying, “I’m a Raggedy Ann in a Barbie Doll world,” Patricia carried herself with humor and authenticity, and those who loved her knew her for these qualities.

Her home was always welcoming, and she had a special gift for making people feel comfortable and cared for—no one ever left without being offered one more glass of iced tea or a few cookies to take home. Her generosity and hospitality extended far beyond her kitchen table; she opened her home and her heart to family, friends, neighbors, and anyone in need of encouragement, a meal, or a place to stay. Like a gardener who never hesitated to share cuttings from a beloved plant, Patricia freely shared her time, resources, and humor.

Patricia is survived by her children: Gregory (Vicki) Merritt of Brownsburg, Indiana; Teresa (Michael) Schmid of Napa, California; and Brian Merritt and partner Frankie Thomas of Indianapolis, Indiana; five grandchildren; thirteen great-grandchildren; her younger brother, Gary K. Wilbur; and a large, loving extended family.

She was preceded in death by her loving husband, Dick Merritt; her parents, Kenneth and Esther Wilbur; her brother, James E. Wilbur; her sister, Lois J. Huffman; and other cherished family members who went before her.

Patricia’s life reflected quiet faith, a generous spirit, and a deep love for family. She lived with the steady assurance that her Savior knew her by name and would one day call her home. Now, having completed her earthly work, she rests in the presence of the One she trusted all her life. Her legacy lives on in the lives she touched, the beauty she cultivated, and the kindness she extended so freely—signs of a faith that took root, grew strong, and continues to bear fruit in those who knew her.

A memorial service will be held at 12:00 noon on Saturday, June 13, 2026, at Christ Evangelical Lutheran Church, 701 E. Tilden Dr., Brownsburg, Indiana, with lunch to follow.

While she loved flowers, she also loved supporting The Wheeler Mission of Indianapolis and Gleaners Food Bank of Indiana, Inc. If you are so moved, memorial contributions may be made to either.

The family is deeply grateful for the love and support shown during this time.