Minister Merilyn Grant was born on March 8, 1947, and departed this earthly life on August 13, 2026. She lived a life rooted in faith, family, service, and a genuine love for others. Throughout her life, she sought to be used by God in whatever way He saw fit, allowing her faith to guide her work, her ministry, and the love she shared with those around her.

Born to the late James E. Johnson, Sr. and Ruth Wheeler Johnson, Merilyn was blessed with a strong foundation that helped shape the woman of faith and service she became. She shared her life with her beloved husband, Trustee Percell Grant, and was the loving mother of her son, Carroll A. Boykins, Jr. (Juliet Boykins). Her greatest joy was found in the love of her family, including her four grandchildren, Steven, Ciara Carlton), Allen, and Marie, and her five great-grandchildren, Stephon, Carlton Jr., Allanta, Carly, and Jo'Siyah. She also leaves to cherish her loving memory a host of family members, friends, church family, former students, and loved ones whose lives were touched and enriched by her presence.

Minister Grant answered God's call to ministry and faithfully served as an Associate Minister at Second Baptist Church East End (SBCEE) in Newport News, Virginia. She was licensed to preach on April 13, 2008, by Pastor Avery E. Miller. As she continued to grow in her calling and service to God, she was ordained by Rev. Leroy Salary on October 12, 2014, at Second Baptist Church East End. Her ministry reflected her deep love for God and her desire to encourage, uplift, and serve His people.

Her commitment to serving others was strengthened through continued religious education and training. In 1997, she completed certification in Religious Studies, and in 1998, she received certification in Pastoral Care through the Evans-Smith Leadership Institute of the Samuel DeWitt Proctor School of Theology at Virginia Union University in Richmond, Virginia. She also received certification in Marriage Counseling from the Peninsula Pastoral Counseling Center in Newport News.

Minister Grant's heart for service extended well beyond the walls of the church. She dedicated many years of her professional life to the Hampton City Public School System, where she taught and worked with special education students until her retirement in June 2009. She also served young people through the City of Hampton Parks and Recreation after-school programs. Her life's work reflected her compassion, patience, and desire to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.

Her dedication to ministry was evident through her active involvement in the ministries of Second Baptist Church East End. On April 9, 2010, she was honored as the church's "Missionary of the Year," recognizing her commitment to Christian service and her willingness to share God's love with others.

Minister Grant had a special gift for bringing joy into the lives of those around her. She loved sharing the Word of God, but she also loved making people laugh and smile. Her faith was not simply something she spoke about; it was reflected in the way she lived, loved, served, and cared for others.

One of her favorite passages of Scripture was Proverbs 3:5–6, which beautifully reflected the faith by which she lived:

"Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not unto your own understanding, but in all your ways acknowledge Him and He shall direct your path."

Minister Merilyn Grant's life was a testimony of what it means to trust God, love family, serve others, and walk faithfully in one's calling. She desired above all else to be used by God according to His will. Her own words beautifully summarized the foundation upon which she built her life:

"GOD is the center of her life."

On August 13, 2026, Minister Merilyn Grant completed her earthly journey, leaving behind a legacy of faith, compassion, service, laughter, and love. The lives she touched, the lessons she taught, the Word she shared, and the love she poured into her family and community will continue to live on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know and love her.

Her life was one of service. Her heart belonged to her family. Her calling belonged to God. And her legacy will live on through the many lives she touched.

Viewing will be held Friday, August 28, 2026 from 11:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. at Cooke Bros. Funeral Chapel, 1601-27th Street, Newport News,Va. A homegoing service will be held 11:00 a.m. Saturday, August 29, 2026 at Second Baptist Church East End, 3303 Chestnut Avenue, Newport News,Va. Interment will follow in Parklawn Memorial Park