Merlin W. Stotts, 80 of Zanesville, died Sunday morning, February 25, 2024, at Genesis Hospice- Morrison House.

Born March 27, 1943, in Zanesville, he was a son of the late James Franklin and Ethel Mae (Hittle) Stotts and a graduate of Adamsville High School.  He was a self-employed truck driver for many years.  Merlin enjoyed fishing and spending his time with his family, especially his granddaughters.

Surviving are his three children, Lori (Adam) Mellor of Kentucky, Gail (Jay) Justice of Mt. Vernon, and Brad (Nicki) Stotts of Dresden; four granddaughters, Samantha, Madison, Lizzie and Laney; two great granddaughters, Elosie and Emelia; a sister, Shirley (Ed) Sipos of Zanesville; and many nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by ten brothers, Leslie, Harold, Ray, Kenneth, Ralph, Lee, Donnie, Dale, Gary and Forry Stotts; and a sister, Eloise Shriver.

Friends and family may visit Wednesday, February 28, 2024, from 6:00-8:00 PM at the Dresden Chapel of Vensil & Chute Funeral Home, 714 Main Street.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 AM, Thursday, February 29, 2024, at Washington Township Baptist Church, 5500 Church Hill Road, Zanesville, Ohio with Pastor Chris Riggs officiating.

Merlin will be buried with his family at Washington Township Baptist Cemetery, Zanesville.