Carolyn Shirley Merk

Mrs. Carolyn Shirley Merk, age 88, of Commerce, GA died Tuesday, June 24, 2025. Mrs. Merk was born in Commerce to the late Leo and Lauree Park Shirley. She was a member of the Baptist faith and retired from the Jefferson City Schools. In addition to her parents, Mrs. Merk was preceded in death by her husband, George Emory Merk; grandchildren, Chris Merk and Jessica Martin; great-grandson, Boyd Archer Merk; and several brothers and sisters.

Mrs. Merk is survived by her sons, Mike Merk (Joni) and Phillip Merk (Ali) both of Commerce; daughter, Gloria Martin (Jerry) of Winder; sister, Marion Salter of Forest Park; grandchildren, Chad Merk, Jarrett Martin (Ashley), Gabe Merk and Vivi Merk (Hayleigh); five great-grandchildren, Emory Merk, Everett Martin, Briggs Martin, Merritt Martin and Rollins Martin; and a number of nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be at 3 PM, Sunday, June 29 at the chapel of Little-Ward Funeral Home with Rev. Ken Barrett officiating. Interment will be at 10 AM, Monday, June 30 at Oconee Baptist Church Cemetery. The family will receive friends at the funeral home Sunday from 1 to 3 PM. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Jackson County Senior Center.

Little-Ward Funeral Home, Commerce is in charge of arrangements.