James Edward Merkel Obituary

With profound sadness, we say goodbye to James Edward Merkel of Chapel Hill, North Carolina, whose vibrant spirit touched the lives of many. James left this world on March 16, 2026 at the age of 93, leaving a void in the lives of so many people. You can send your sympathy in the guestbook provided and share it with the family.

He was predeceased by: his parents, Gustave Merkel and Julia Merkel; his former wife Madeleine Sophie Merkel; and his daughter Madeleine Mary Merkel. He is survived by: his wife Linda T. Merkel; his siblings, Gustave Merkel and Julia A. Olsen of Wilmington, NC.; his children, Jim Merkel (Vicki) of Alpharetta, GA, Bill Merkel (Sherry) of Durham, NC, Lyda Stanford (James) of Hillsborough, NC, Tom Merkel (Sue) of Dallas, TX, Peggy Tempero (Doug) of Plantation, FL, Kathy Hinson (Eric) of Chapel Hill, NC, Fred Merkel (Jackie) of Sandy Springs, GA, Bob Merkel (Ceci) of Hialeah, FL and Hugh Merkel (Kathryn) of Chapel Hill, NC.; and his stepsons, Dave Thompson (Sheryl) of Chapel Hill, NC and Ray Thompson of Chapel Hill, NC.. He is also survived by 21 grandchildren and 7 great-grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to one of the following organizations or to a charity of your choice: Sisters of the Divine Compassion (https://divinecompassion.org; 52 North Broadway, White Plains, NY 10603); or, the SECU Family House at UNC Hospitals (https://www.secufh.org 123 Old Mason Farm Road, Chapel Hill, NC 27517).