Herbert Edward Merritt Jr., 88, of Hyde Park, passed away on Sunday, August 16, 2026, at Vassar Brothers Medical Center in Poughkeepsie.

Born on October 4, 1937, in Poughkeepsie, he was the son of the late Herbert Edward Merritt Sr. and Alice Ulbrandt Merritt.

Herb was a hardworking man who took great pride in everything he did. He spent 48 years with the Grand Union Company, beginning as a cart boy and steadily working his way into management. In his retirement, he continued to enjoy working and spent 18 years with Adams Fairacre Farms in Poughkeepsie.

He enjoyed spending time outdoors and working around his yard, a simple pleasure that brought him peace. Herb was also a former member of the Hyde Park Moose Lodge.

On October 9, 1955, at St. Peter's Church in Poughkeepsie, he married the former Joyce E. Baker. They shared a long and devoted marriage until her passing in 2016.

Survivors include his sons: Herbert Edward Merritt III of West Palm Beach, Fl and Edward J. Merritt and his wife, Jacqueline, of Hyde Park; two grandchildren, Maryann M. Merritt and Edward J. Merritt Jr.; four great grandchildren; as well as a niece and nephew.

In addition to his wife, he was predeceased by one brother, Raymond Merritt.

Burial will take place next to his wife at Union Cemetery in Hyde Park. Services will be private and at the convenience of the family.

Arrangements are under the direction of Sweet's Funeral Home, Hyde Park.

To send an online condolence, please visit Herb's obituary page at www.sweetsfuneralhome.com.