George Robert "Bob" Merrill

George Robert “Bob” Merrill, a.k.a. Bullet Bob,75, of Morganton, NC, departed this life and joined his parents on January 31, 2023. After a period of declining health, Bob passed peacefully in his home surrounded by his wife, family members, and countless friends.

Born January 21st, 1948 in Lakeland, Florida, he was the son of the late George and Janice Merrill.

Bob is survived by his wife of 51 years, Susan Wacaster Merrill; brother and sister-in-law, Mark and Loreli Merrill; sister-in-law, Debbie Grigg (Don), and their cherished daughter, Sandi; brother-in-law, Ted Wacaster (Nolita), and numerous nieces and nephews.

Bob was a Political Science graduate of Mars Hill College and earned his Master of Arts Degree from Appalachian State University. After working 31 years with the NC Department of Corrections, he retired in 2004 as the Assistant Superintendent II. His most honored accolade was receiving The Order of The Long Leaf Pine Award upon retirement.

Bob was a modest man; however, he was also extremely intelligent in an array of topics and trades. He was the family's Trivia champion, mechanic, carpenter, gardener, engineer, and card shark to name a few. He was a licensed pilot who could be seen flying a plane over Lake James in the 90's.

Although he was reserved and often mistaken as timid, Bob was quite the adventurist. He was a certified scuba diver and dove in some of the most desired waters. He was an avid motorcyclist and rode all over the US with his friends. He appreciated traveling in a not-so-touristy fashion. He and his wife, along with friends, ventured to many parts of the world soaking up the culture, the land and the people.

Close to home, he enjoyed going to his family's mountain cabin that has been in his family for generations. With the hiking, fishing, nature, and animals that came with the surroundings of the cabin it was obviously one of his 'happy places'.

His love for animals was ever apparent in the number of pets he had over the years. He also enjoyed feeding his neighborhood 'pets' which were deer that frequented his yard for daily feedings.

Bob was a member of St. Mary's and St. Stephens Episcopal Church. His huge smile, unforgettable laugh and gentle generous soul will forever be missed and we are all better for having known him.

The family will receive friends from 1 to 2 p.m., Saturday, February 4, 2023 at St. Mary’s & St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church. The memorial service will follow at 2 p.m. in the church with The Revs. Logan Lovelace and Larry Britt officiating.