Telfair Eugene Merkison was born on February 9, 1957 in Jacksonville, Florida to Bishop Amos Darring and the late Louvenia Williams.  He was the oldest of seven children. Affectionately known as “Teddy Bear” by family and friends, he received his education from Stanton High School.  He was employed by CDI for many years. Teddy Bear enjoyed his toys such as cars, motorcycles, and boats.  He loved his family and kept his friends close.  He attended The Heir Church where he accepted Jesus as his Lord and Savior.

Telfair (“Teddy”), was joined in Holy Matrimony to Danette (Chris) Williams-Merkison for over 20 years. To this union, one child was born, Pharryl Jade Merkison.

Teddy departed this life on Monday, July 27, 2020.  He was preceded in death by his mother, Louvenia Williams; uncle, “Will” William Merkison; sons, Telfair Leggett and Telfair Merkison II; brothers, Holland Anderson and Lawrence Williams; in-laws, Charles and Esther Williams.

Teddy leaves to cherish his memory a loving and devoted wife, Danette (Chris) Williams-Merkison; children, Sertana Crooms of Jacksonville, FL, Holland Mordica of Atlanta, GA, Traci Merkison and Shandrica Smith of Jacksonville, FL, and Pharryl Merkison of Tampa, FL; stepchildren, Michael George and Tiffany George of Jacksonville, FL; siblings, Cheryl Williams of Tampa, FL, Vivian Merkison, Phyllis Merkison, and Virgil Davis of Jacksonville, FL; in-laws, Darryl Williams (Diane) of Tampa FL and Angela Williams of Jacksonville, FL; and a host of grandchildren, three great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, family, and friends.