Celebrating a life of service

Judy Miles Merritt was the first woman to be named president of a college in Alabama, a lover of education and a believer in equal achievement. Throughout her life, she made it her mission to create a pathway of success for all.  

On Oct. 19, Merritt passed away at her home in Chelsea, leaving behind a lifetime of achievement. 

She was born the daughter of longtime educators in Jacksonville, Alabama, so it was only natural for her to become one herself. Her father, Dr. Lawrence Miles, was dean of admissions at Jacksonville State University, and her mother, Beatrice, was a teacher. 

At the early age of 16, Merritt entered the University of Alabama and began a lifelong love of the opportunities provided by advanced education. While on campus she joined the Alpha Chi Omega sorority, became an active leader in campus activities, and met her best friend and future husband, Thomas E. Merritt Jr. 

After earning her master’s and doctorate degrees from the University of Alabama, she started her career as a counselor of admissions at what was then Jefferson State Junior College in 1965, which also marked the opening year of the college. 

Friends and family remember that Merritt often said it was her favorite job because it allowed her to directly interact with the students. 

Although she left her position at Jefferson State to become the vice president of student affairs at Florida International University, she returned to Jefferson State Junior College as president in 1979. Her appointment by Governor Fob James marked the first time a woman had been named president of a college in Alabama. She would continue to serve in the position for the next 35 years.

She was then appointed to the Bruno’s, Inc. board of directors, and she became the first female corporate board member for Energen Corporation in 1993. She served in that position until the time of her death. 

When Merritt began her tenure at Jefferson State Community College, the college consisted of one campus located in the eastern area of Jefferson County. Today, it spans campuses in four counties. 

When she retired in June 2014, Merritt said “that while the dream for many has been achieved, the fight for pathways to education, equality and inclusion continues.”  

During her career, Merritt also served on numerous boards and committees. Among her favorites were the Hand in Paw advisory board; the United Way of Central Alabama, which she co-chaired;  the Public Affairs Research Council of Alabama Board of Directors; and the American Association of Community and Junior Colleges Board of Directors. 

“The entire Jefferson State Community College family is mourning the loss of our longtime leader and friend, Judy M. Merritt,” said Keith Brown, Jefferson State interim president. “As the former president of the college and community leader, she devoted her entire life to the service of others. Over a career spanning more than four decades, she was a constant force as one who truly made a difference.”   

 Merritt’s passing was preceded by the death of her parents and husband. A celebration of her life was held Oct. 24 at the Jefferson State Community College Shelby-Hoover Campus. In lieu of flowers, Merritt’s family asked that donations be made to Jefferson State Community College in her honor. 

-Submitted by David Bobo