Jacob Byron David Merrill

***Please see In-Lieu of Flowers notice at bottom*** It is with deep sadness filled with tears that we let you know that our son Jacob is now in the presence of our Savior. God blessed us with a beautiful 2 year old child we adopted over 27 years ago when we were growing as a family. He brought joy with an infectious smile that will remain with us. Many who know Jacob have experienced his smile, laughter and his sense of humor. Few…however, including his family knew of his inner battles. Sadly those battles too often turn to addiction. Jake had times when he was winning those battles. The best time was when he was a young boy growing up hearing about the amazing Grace of Jesus. We took him to a church that taught the Hope of Christ. We consistently shared passages of Scripture like John 3:16-17 “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him.” Through all of his battles even as young boy, he realized his need for the Savior. It was then he placed his faith in Christ. Ephesians 2:8+9, “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God not by works, so that no one can boast.” It is in this that we remember the sweetness of our son. It is in this that we have peace and know Jake is healed from the years of warfare and we hold on to our Hope: 1 Thessalonians 4:13 + 14, “Brothers and sisters, we do not want you to be uninformed about those who sleep in death, so that you do not grieve like the rest of mankind, who have no hope. For we believe that Jesus died and rose again, and so we believe that God will bring with Jesus those who have fallen asleep in him.” We are so grateful for family and friends who have loved Jake up through these years. We’re grateful for the support system of counselors and doctors who are always ready and willing to help our boy in the battles. We also want to communicate to you, moms and dad who are dealing with children with these battles and addictions that there is help. There’s also support for you because we know the desperation that you feel. You do not have to walk this journey alone. Whether, you’re the one who is caught up in addiction or you are a parent who is struggling to help your child. Please do not stay silent, reach out and if you need help or ideas of who to talk to, just message us. Lastly we are going through the pain staking time in planning to say goodbye to our son for now. We covet your prayers for us, along with Josh, Sarah and the girls, Jeremy and Jaimee and ask for a special prayer of comfort for our Paige. Paige is doing mission work in Australia and is not able to come home to grieve and celebrate her brother to Heaven. We will post memorial service information for Jacob once those plans have been finalized. Please give us some time before you reach out as we are putting arrangements together. Thank you for your love, prayers and support. We love you Jacob and we will miss you until we are reunited in heaven ♥️ Revelation 21:4 “He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.” In Lieu of Flowers: Donations can be made to support the Adoption Ministry of Northridge Church. Please send checks to Northridge Church and in the memo line put Adoption and Foster Care Ministry. Mailing address: Northridge Church 49555 N. Territorial Rd., Plymouth, MI 48170.

Jacob Byron David Merrill

February 24, 1991 - February 21, 2021