Merritt "Sam" Raymond

Merritt J. Raymond Jr., "Sam" 65, of Paw Paw, passed away peacefully Tuesday April 8, 2025, at his home in Paw Paw after a bravely fought battle against cancer.

He was born January 26, 1960, in Paw Paw, Michigan, the son of Merritt J. Raymond Sr.and Betty (Moon) Raymond.

Sam was a man full of strength, positivity, honesty, intelligence and humorous personality. He was famous for his one-liners and jokes, always making everyone around him laugh. He loved showcasing his different colored eyes and receiving various different reactions. He was an avid Michigan Wolverine and Detroit Lions fan and tuned in to almost every game! Merritt also enjoyed all types of food, taking long walks and drives and just hanging out with his loved ones.

His positivity and love extended to his four-legged friends as well. He never turned away a stray and made sure his animals had everything they needed and all the love they deserved. Sam's greatest accomplishment was his beautiful family. He loved being with his children and grandchildren. He was the dad and grandpa who never missed a sporting event or show and was your biggest cheerleader in the crowd. Sam was especially close with all of his grandchildren.

His smile, respectfulness, honesty, humor and positivity will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. Sam was truly the best mentor for his children and grandchildren.

He leaves behind the love of his life, Maureen (Early) Raymond; sons, Justin (Theresa) Raymond and Jordan Raymond; daughters, Kyla (Steven) Peebles and Kassie Bigham-Early; grandchildren, Amiya Bowie, Clayton Bretch, Justin Genovese, Maddy, Maxwell, Aliyah Raymond, Naomi Raymond, Marcus Raymond, Brady Raymond, Olivia and Samuel; brothers, Jim (Shirley) Raymond, Larry (Cindy) Raymond and David (Nicole Smoot) Raymond; sisters, Charlene Treadway, Cathy (Ray) Piecyk and Betty Padgett.

Sam was reunited with his parents, son, Kody Bigham and sisters, Cheryl (Mick) Butler and Sherri Raymond.

Family and friends are invited to visit on Tuesday, April 15, 2025, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Adams Funeral Home, 502 W. Michigan Avenue, Paw Paw. Services will begin at 1:00 p.m. to honor Sam's life.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to Freshwater Community Church, 600 E. Michigan Ave., Paw Paw, MI 49079.