Paul Arthur Merrill, a longtime resident and dedicated citizen of Potosi, Missouri, passed away peacefully on Thursday, September 24, 2026, at the age of 79. Paul was born on November 12, 1946, in Perkin, Illinois, to the late Arthur Merrill and Vera Lucille (Wardell) Merrill. On July 23, 1976, Paul married the love of his life, Glenda Herrington. Together, they shared 50 years of marriage, building a life filled with family, love, service, and countless memories.

Paul will be lovingly remembered by his wife, Glenda Merrill; his eight children, Paul Merrill Jr. (Stephanie), Mindy Worsfold, Tommy Lynn Merrill, Crystal Hagerty (Scott), Logan Merrill (Ana), Sheena Dicus (Eugene), Gwen Kinney (Josh), and Robin Blair (Drew); his sister, Mary Beless; and a host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and extended family members who will forever cherish his memory.

Paul lived a life defined by service to others. He proudly served in the United States Army, retiring on October 13, 2006. Following his military service, he continued his commitment to serving his community. Paul was an active member of VFW Post 6996, where he served on the Veterans Military Funeral Honors Team, honoring fellow veterans with the dignity and respect they deserved.

He also selflessly served the Potosi Fire Protection District as a volunteer firefighter and spent many years as a first responder, always willing to lend a helping hand to those in need. Paul was a member of Potosi Masonic Lodge #131 and a longtime member of Potosi Southern Baptist Church.

To those who knew Paul, his legacy will be found not only in the many years he devoted to his family and community, but in the lives he touched through his kindness, service, and willingness to help others. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, fellow veterans, and the many people who were fortunate enough to know him.

Paul was preceded in death by his parents, Arthur and Vera Lucille Merrill; his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Boyd and Glenda Herrington; and many other dear relatives.

A time of visitation will be held Tuesday, September 29, 2026, from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. at DeClue Funeral Home. Visitation will resume Wednesday, September 30, 2026, at 9:00 a.m. and continue until the time of his funeral service at 10:00 a.m. at the DeClue Chapel, with Bro. Bryan Buckley officiating.

Interment will follow at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery, where Paul will receive full military honors presented by the United States Army.

Funeral arrangements have been respectfully entrusted to the care of DeClue Funeral Home.