Mr. Frank B. Merrifield

Mr. Frank B. Merrifield “Scootie” was born August 6, 1956 in Alton IL. He was the biological son of Frank Brown Jr. and Vera Day Brown. He was the adopted son of Rockford Merrifield and Mary Lee Brown Merrifield of Alton, IL. Frank attended school in Alton, IL, he served in the US Army and was active in the Army Reserves for many years after that. Frank was raised with the church family of Greater St. James Baptist Church in Alton, IL. Frank’s life, like most of ours, had many ups and downs, but most important of all he always had the love of the Lord and many family members and friends which helped sustain us all. He was known for having a great sense of humor and kindness. Frank was a great drummer who loved his music and collected musical instruments, trains and army gear. His dad was a great jazz saxophonist, and music within the family was very diverse. One grandfather loved Country-western, the other Lawrence Welk champagne music, I believe the ladies loved R&B and gospel. Frank relocated to Carlinville, IL with our cousin Maxwell (Butch) Crabb. He loved it there and did very well in that tiny town. He was still employed for the school district there at the time of his passing. He seemed to develop a chest full of pride working there and his coworkers and the children loved him. Some are represented here today as well as some neighbors and friends. On the evening of Thursday January 4th Frank entered eternal rest. Praise the Lord, he did not suffer long. He was hospitalized on Dec. 2nd, home by Dec. 8th. He had 3 great weeks with family and friends then he went away with family by his side. He was blessed with 67 yrs. In addition to parents he was preceded in death by a sister Joanie Ellington. Frank leaves to cherish his precious memories: his children Teshana and LaMarr Merrifield, four grandchildren: Aubreney Willis (Ben), Jaelin Ricks, Marquez Singleton & Melody Merrifield (he called her M&M). 3 bonus sons and their children all of Alton IL and surrounding areas, his sister Malaya Brown Branch of Alton IL, a brother Rick Brown and sister Christy Pryor of Florida. A huge host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Mr. Frank B. Merrifield

August 6, 1956 - January 4, 2024