William Merrell

William "Bill" C. Merrell Jr., of McAdenville, North Carolina, passed away peacefully on February 18, 2026, after a brief battle with cancer.

Bill proudly served his country in the United States Air Force before beginning a career in telecommunications. It was during his time at CACI that he met the love of his life, Elise Patton. After retirement, Bill and Elise made their home in North Carolina, where he cherished being close to his daughters and grandson.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Elise Patton; his stepdaughters, Bailey (Jeffrey) and Taylor (David); his beloved grandson, Bradley; his sisters, Pam (Gene) Szermi and Karen (Bill) Mears; and his nephew, Kyle; and other family members.  He will be remembered for his dedication to family, his service to his country, and the quiet strength and kindness he showed to those around him.

The family is holding a private service. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Bill's honor to a veteran's organization or an animal rescue of your choice.

Bill will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew him.