James E. Merrick

James E. Merrick, 89, longtime resident of Mattydale, passed away peacefully on Tuesday at St. Joseph’s Hospital. Jimmy was raised on the East side of Syracuse by the late Philip and Mary (Medzie) Maracek and was a 1951 graduate of Nottingham High School. He served in the US Air Force from 1956-1958 and then with the Army Reserves for six more years.

Jimmy retired in 1983 after 20 years as a Syracuse City Firefighter. Following retirement, he worked as the beverage manager and bartender at the Lafayette Country Club. Jimmy was a member of the Pastime Athletic Club and was the recipient of the Arthur Jenkins Award in 1976. He and his wife, Sandy, maintained a summer camp at Brennan’s Beach in Pulaski for over 30 years where he enjoyed hunting, fishing, camping, and playing cards. Jimmy was a communicant of Sacred Heart Church in Cicero.

Surviving is his wife of 54 years, the former Sandra (Hammill); their two sons, James P. Merrick of Mattydale and Douglas G. Merrick of North Syracuse; two grandchildren, Audry and Hunter; and a great grandson, Damian.

The family wishes for everyone to remember all the good times and memories shared. To keep Jimmy’s memory alive, the family asks that you give a friend a flower.