I was first introduced to Merrick back in 2001, by a mutual friend who he was also helping at the time. They came to visit me while I was serving a prison sentence.
I was nervous to start with as I’m not good at meeting new people, but with Merrick, he made me feel at ease straight away. Which led to us keeping in regular contact via letters and many more visits. Merrick was like a rock to me, he was always there to listen and to offer advice and guidance.
I was lucky enough to stay at The East House with Merrick & Chrystal briefly in 2003 & 2004. I will never forget the kindness they both showed me. They both showed me what a true Christian is.
My friendship with Merrick lasted over 20 years and I will never forget the positive impact he had on my life. Helping me to get my life back on the right path. Leading me to staying out of trouble for over 20 years, maintaining my current job for nearly 16 years, settling down with my fiancée and raising my 17 year old son Luke into the fine and bright young man he is today.
My biggest regret was that, we didn’t see much of each other in the last few years before his passing.
Merrick was definitely a people person and I loved listening to his life experiences and about his travels, while we shared a pint and a bite to eat at many of his favourite pubs.
Merrick was a true saint, always putting others before himself. The kind of person you will only ever come across once in your life time and I am grateful that I had the chance to know him and to have made so many great memories.
For that Merrick I thank you and I hope that I made you proud.
All the best old friend. We will met again.
Stephen Vincent
