Jessie Lea Morene Merritt, of Burlington passed away at Alamance Regional Medical Center on Friday, March 15, 2019. A native of Alamance County, she was the wife of James Livingston Merritt, who survives and the daughter of Joe and Pearl Saunders Morene, both deceased. She was a homemaker and wonderful grandmother who loved spending time with her family, grandchildren and great granddaughters. Mrs. Merritt was a member of Lakeview Community Church. In addition to her husband of the home, survivors include one son, James Lee Merritt and wife Debra of Elon; two grandchildren; James Brandon Merritt and wife Michelle, of Elon and Gabrielle Patrice Merritt of Chapel Hill and fiance Brady Buchanan; two great-grandchildren, Chandler Marie Merritt and Paisley Ann Merritt. She was preceded in death by a sister, Annie Morene and a brother, Banks Morene. The funeral service will be conducted at Rich & Thompson Funeral Service in Burlington on Sunday, March 17, 2019 at 3:30 p.m. by Rev. Gerald Sanders. Memorials may be made to Lakeview Community Church, 101 Boone Road, Burlington, NC 27217. Rich & Thompson Funeral and Cremation Service in Burlington is assisting the family. Condolences may be offered at www.richandthompson.com .