David A. Merritt, 92, of Barnesville, Ohio passed away on Tuesday, February 10, 2026 at Emerald Pointe Nursing and Rehab. Dave was born on March 7, 1933 in Hendrysburg, Ohio to the late Austin and Vada Mae (Adkins) Merritt. 

David was a true jack of all trades and master of most. A hardworking and dedicated man, he managed B&M Grasslands and later operated his own business, D&M Fencing and Seeding, where his strong work ethic and skill were well known throughout the community. For many years, he also drove a milk truck, forming friendships along his route and becoming a familiar face to many local families.

David faithfully served as a Kirkwood Township Trustee for an incredible 44 years. An avid horse lover, David raised Missouri Fox Trotters and proudly served as president of the Belmont County Saddle Club. 

In addition to his parents, Dave was preceded in death by his children, Donna Mae Roberts and Bradley David Drake; great-grandson, Joshua; and brothers, Thomas L. Merritt, Homer Merritt, Christopher Merritt and his twin brother, James Merritt.

Dave is survived by his wife of 61 years, Monna (Leach) Merritt; daughters, Brenda Rogers, Cyndi (Jeff) Burns, Rebecca (Robert) Lynn; sons, David (Carol) Merritt and Dale (Crystal) Drake; 23 grandchildren, Kenneth, Kimberly, Natasha, Stephanie, Andrea, Shawn, Michelle, Ryan, Alyssa, Justin, Jason, Jeremy, Julie, Ashley, Rachael, Tiffany, Jennifer, Jill, Jeff, Dale, Austin, Samantha, Brady; several great-granchildren and great-great-grandchildren; siblings, Eleanor Rickard, Edward Merritt, Robert Merritt, William (Marcia) Merritt, Linda Hawkinberry, and Betsy (Larry) Smith; and many nieces, nephews, and extended family. 

Visitation will be held on Friday, February 13, 2026, from 2-4 & 6-8 PM at Campbell-Plumly-Milburn Funeral Home, 319 North Chestnut Street, Barnesville, Ohio. Funeral services will be held on Saturday, February 14, 2026, at 1pm with Pastor Brian Bee officiating. Burial will follow at Hope Cemetery in Hendrysburg, Ohio.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Dave's memory to Hospice of Guernsey, P.O. Box 1165, Cambridge, Ohio 43725.