Pastor L.G. (Jerry) Merritt was born and grew up in Waco, Texas.  He received a BBA and a MS from Baylor University.  In 1959 he was commissioned as a 2nd lieutenant  in the United States Air Force. He served on active duty from 1959-1962 and attained the rank of captain. He also learned Greek from the Moody Bible Institute and Hebrew at the University of Texas and studied law at St. Mary’s University, San Antonio.

Pastor Merritt and his wife Tommie were avid baseball fans. Tommie passed away on Oct 17th 2021.  She was not only Jerry's loving wife of 65 years, she was also the pianist and a soloist for the Church. She was a blessing loaned to us from God and Jerry looks forward to being reunited with his beloved Tommie in Heaven. 

 Jerry was signed by the Baltimore Orioles  and played for their minor league organization.  Tommie was the expert of experts on a certain major league team. 

Pastor Merritt credits the following Bible teachers for influencing his ministry:  Chafer, Feinberg, Ironside, Keck, Pentecost, Ryrie, Thieme, Jr., Unger, Walvoord and Wuest.

Pastor Merritt was ordained at Westlake Baptist Church and was the pastor at Westbank Bible Church since its inception in 1994 until its closing in December of 2021.  He continues on with his ministry via website and podcast.

Tommie & Pastor Merritt celebrating 
their 50th wedding anniversary

Pastor Merritt with his daughter, Lezli, and wife Tommie

More photos of the family

Tommie Merritt and Emily Hammon Duet