Terry F. Merritts

December 1, 1941-January 5, 2026

Terry F. Merritts, 84, of Altoona, passed away Monday at UPMC after an extended illness, surrounded by his loving family at UPMC Altoona. He was born in Altoona, the son of the late Howard and Mary (O’Flaherty) Merritts.

Terry married Marian S. Willis on December 2, 1967 in Dudley, Penn.

He is survived by his loving wife of 58 years; his son, Terry C. Merritts of Altoona and his daughter, Samantha Merritts (Scott) of Winchester, VA and his brother, Mark Merritts (Joan) of Mifflintown.

Terry was a graduate of Altoona High School and a graduate of Penn State University, where he received his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in education.

He had served as a member of the PA Army National Guard for six years.

Terry retired from the Altoona Area School District with over 30 years of service as an English Teacher. He taught at Logan Jr. High, Keith Jr. High and finally at Altoona Area High School.

He was a member of Our Lady of Mount Carmel Catholic Church.

Terry had been a member with Pennsylvania State Education Association and the National Education Association. He was an avid reader and a lifelong learner. Terry enjoyed time outdoors walking his 3 dogs, Henry, Murphy and Gus.

A funeral Mass will be celebrated at noon, Saturday, January 10, 2026 at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Catholic Church, 806 11th St., Altoona, PA 16602 by the Franciscan Fathers.

Committal will be held at Calvary Cemetery with military honors.

Arrangements are provided by The Stevens Mortuary, Inc., 1421 8th Avenue, Altoona, PA 16602.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests contributions be made in Terry’s memory to: St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105/ www.stjude.org/memorial.

Condolences may be made at www.stevensfamilyfuneralhomes.com or Stevens Family Funeral Homes Facebook.