Merley Belk "Mert" Carnes

May 1, 2020

Mr. Merley Belk “Mert” Carnes, born November 14, 1936 was called home on May 1, 2020 at the age of 83. He passed away surrounded by loved ones. Mert always loved the outdoors and working with his hands. From cars to tractors and especially motorcycles, he always enjoyed and was great at fixing anything. As much as he liked being outside, he loved watching westerns and being a former wrestler any and all types of wrestling. However, the thing he loved more than anything in the world was his grandson Trotter. Mert lived a long and greatly fulfilled life. From owning his own shop to working on pipelines in Oregon, he truly was a jack of all trades. Merley was preceded in death by both of his parents, Claude and Jerusha Carnes, a sister, Betty Joyce Carnes; a son, Timothy Carnes; and a daughter, Kathy Adams. Survivors include his soulmate of 37 years Susan Carnes; his beloved daughter, Laurel Carnes and her fiancé Andy Ellis; and his grandson, Trotter Merley-Earl Carnes. He also leaves behind four brothers, T.C. Carnes and his wife Barbara; Harvey Carnes and his wife Pat; and two more brothers, Jack and Jerry Carnes; and a grandson, Eric Dunlap. Also countless other family members and friends. Mert touched the lives of so many people and loved his family and friends unconditionally. He left a lasting impression on everyone he met and because of that he will forever live within our hearts. A memorial service to celebrate the life of Mr. Carnes will be held Thursday, May 7, 2020 at 3 p.m. from the graveside at Hopewell United Methodist Church with the Rev. Candice Sloan officiating. Lancaster Funeral Home & Cremation Service is serving the family of Mr. Carnes.