Vernon Howard Merck

Mr. Vernon Howard Merck, age 83, of Rome, GA, passed away on Thursday, February 29, 2024. 

Mr. Merck was born on April 23, 1940 in Gainesville, GA. He was the son of the late Mr. Joseph Hoyt Merck and Mrs. Bertha Bell Merck. Vernon was a member of the Euharlee Masonic Lodge, The Yaarab Shriners of Atlanta and the Cartersville Chapter 329 Order of Easter Star. Throughout his life, Vernon found joy in Southern Gospel Music. A talented singer with a passion for music, he mesmerized audiences with his captivating voice. His talent shone brightly as an excellent first tenor singer, captivating the hearts of all who had the pleasure of listening to him. Among his proudest accomplishments was the unforgettable moment when he received a standing ovation for his soul-stirring rendition of "How Great Thou Art" at the Los Angeles Coliseum alongside Marty Robbins. This remarkable feat not only showcased his exceptional vocal abilities but also touched the souls of those in attendance.

Furthermore, Vernon had the honor of recording partially with none other than the legendary Elvis Presley. His collaboration with Elvis stands as a testament to his immense talent and dedication to his craft, leaving an indelible mark on the world of music. He retired from Lockheed Martin after many years of dedicated service. Mr. Merck was a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend who will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved him. 

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his son, Kendell Merck; siblings: Joe Merck, James Merck, Larry Merck, Mildred Poole and Martha Wright. 

Vernon is survived by his beloved wife, Linda Diane Chastain Merck; children: Kelden (Kim) Merck, Kerrie Kilburn and Crystal Green; brothers:  Rev. Douglas Merck, Johnny Merck and Rev. Richard Merck; grandchildren: Andrea Silvers, Dylan Maddix, Cassidy Maddix, Kellany Mathis, Kolby (Bry) Merck, Bob (Kelly) Kilburn, Courtney (Chris) Cruz and Lindsay Kilburn; great grandchildren, Javyn Silvers, Blake Mathis, Beau Mathis and Collin Cruz and several loving nieces, nephews and cousins also survive. 

Funeral Services to honor the life of Mr. Vernon Howard Merck will be held on Sunday, March 3, 2024 at 2:00 PM in the Salmon Funeral Home Chapel with Reverend Barry McCullough and Reverend Derek Hall officiating. Interment will take place at Oaknoll Memorial Gardens on Monday, March 4, 2024 at 1:00 PM with Reverend Rodger Whorton officiating and Masonic Rites to follow. All family and friends are requested to meet at the cemetery at 12:45 PM. Tommy Stover, Teddy Gallaway, Nathan Merck, George Chastain, Jr., Jeremy Merck, Jason Merck and Lamar Pendley will serve as pallbearers.  

The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Saturday, March 2, 2024 from 5:00 PM until 7:00 PM. Starting at 7:00 PM there will be an Eastern Star Service following the visitation. 

Salmon Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Mr. Vernon Howard Merck.