Gerald John Merritt, a native and resident of New Orleans, LA, departed this life on Friday, June 12, 2020. He was the loving father of Kimberly (Elbert) Hamilton and Stacie Merritt, and loving grandfather of Juan Mason Hendon, Ellis and Kelby Hamilton. He is also survived by his wife, Cathy Peters Merritt; sister, Gail (Jerry) Gladney and aunt, Marion B. Smith, as well as a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. Mr. Merritt was preceded in death by his first wife of 33 years, Mary Thurman Merritt; parents, Gabriel C. and Dora Boutte Merritt and brother, Gabriel "Gabe" Merritt. A private funeral Mass honoring Mr. Gerald John Merritt will be held at St. Peter Claver Catholic Church, 1923 St. Philip Street, New Orleans, LA on Saturday, June 20, 2020 at 10 am. The Mass will also be streamed via Facebook at St. Peter Claver NOLA or YouTube at SP NOLA. Interment St. Louis No. 3, Esplanade Avenue, New Orleans, LA. Visitation 8:30 am in the church. Everyone in attendance will be required to adhere to all COVID 19 restrictions. You must wear a mask and practice social distancing. Please keep condolences brief. All are invited to attend a drive through viewing which will be held at Charbonnet Labat Glapion Funeral Home on Friday, June 19, 2020 from 4 pm to 6 pm. Please remain in your vehicles. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in remembrance of Mr. Gerald J. Merritt Class of 1960 to St. Augustine High School.