Merlin E. Armitage, 96, of Kilgore passed away on Tuesday, June 30, 2026, in Kilgore. Merlin was born in Dale, Wisconsin on January 28, 1930.  Mr. Armitage served our country in the United State Air Force as a pilot and reached the rank of Major. After Merlin's retirement from the United States Air Force, he worked as a corporate pilot. He was a husband, father and grandfather and will be missed by his family and friends. 

Merlin was preceded in death by his wife Susan Armitage, children, Marlene Suzzane Armitage, Ricky Gene Armitage and stepson, Dale McMillian.

He is survived by his son and daughter-in-law, Mark and Melissa Armitage of Kilgore and grandson, Zachary Lane Armitage of San Antonio. 

Cremation arrangements are under the direction of Rader Funeral Home of Kilgore.