Florida Jean (Souder) Merriex

Florida Jean Souder Merriex, 77, transitioned from this life on January 23, 2024, in Albany, Georgia. She was born October 9, 1946, in Key West, Florida, to the late Reverend W. L. and Grace L. Souder, the sixth of eight children.

Florida grew up in Gainesville, Florida, where the family had moved when she was four years old. She graduated from Lincoln High School in 1964 and Albany State College (now Albany State University) in Albany, Georgia, in 1968. She graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing. After graduation, she returned to live in Gainesville and worked at the University of Florida Shands Hospital. She earned a master’s degree from the University of Florida and returned to Albany State as an instructor in the School of Nursing for several years. In Albany, she also worked at Phoebe Putney Hospital and Slater King Adult Day Care Rehabilitation Center. She was the consummate nurse until her retirement.

Florida joined Hines Memorial CME Church after she returned to Albany and remained a devoted and active member for the duration of her life. She was a faithful Sunday School teacher and choir member. She had an unwavering and sincere love for her church family.

Florida Jean, as she was called by those closest to her, was treasured by her family. She is survived by her loving and devoted goddaughter, Tangela Tumblin; three sisters, Wessie Morris, Perlyn Staggers, and Marva Souder; one brother, Raymond Souder; two sisters-in-law, Deborah Souder, and Hazel Souder; one brother-in-law, Nelson Morris; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins. She was married to Leroy Prince Merriex until his death.

Florida was also blessed by a loyal and caring community of friends, neighbors, and church family who loved and aided her during her life. Special thanks to Mother Orisa Jefferson, Lucy K. Mims, Marva Swint, and a multitude of others whose names we may not know.

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