Curtis Merida, age 72, of Bimble, died Friday, June 16, 2017 at his home. He was a son of the late Adison and Gladys Allen Merida, born to them on July 19, 1944 at Hammond in Knox County.

He was a well known Knox County Owner & Operator of Curtis Merida Timber; and he was a Member of the New Bethel Baptist Church.

On July 2, 1964, he united in marriage to Thelma Smith, and to this union two daughters: Tammy and Tracy, and a son: Todd Curtis were born.

Curtis was preceded in death by his son-in-law: Roger Wagers, his parents: Adison and Gladys Allen Merida, and several brothers-in-law.

He is survived by: His precious and loving wife of over 53 years: Thelma Smith Merida of Bimble. His two daughters: Tammy Wagers and her late husband, Roger of Bimble; and Tracy M. Smith and close friend Josh Allen of Bimble. His son: Todd Curtis Merida and wife, Rebecca of Corbin.

His grandchildren: Kyle Wayne Wagers and fiance' Britany of Bimble; Bradley Derek Wagers of Bimble; Amber Smith Hibbard and husband, Daniel of Flat Lick; Ashton Blake Smith and close friend Jeremy Wagers of Lexington, Kentucky; Gabriel Todd Merida and Jude Carson Merida of Corbin.

His great grandchildren: Preslie Michelle Wagers and Jade Olivia Jackson of Bimble; Kylee Lena Danielle Hibbard and Camden Jace Hibbard of Flat Lick.

His three brothers: Shirley Ray Merida and wife, Vada of Bimble; Raphael Wayne Merida of Flat Lick; and Gary Kim Merida and wife, Rena of Flat Lick.

His three sisters: Lena Faye Gray and husband, Paul of Dearborn, Michigan; Evelyn Tye and her late husband Josh of Barbourville; and Valerie Joan Broughton and husband, Scott of Barbourville.

A host of nieces and nephews; and some special friends: Flem D. Warren, James Mills, Danny Daniels, Carlus Vanover, and Tim Crawford; and many other relatives, and dear friends to mourn his passing.

Funeral Services for Curtis Merida will be 2:00 P.M. Tuesday, June 20, 2017 in the Hopper Funeral Home Chapel with Bro. David Daniels and Bro. A.B. Smallwood officiating. Burial will follow in the Barbourville Cemetery.

Those serving as Pallbearers will be: Kyle Wagers, Bradly Wagers, Josh Allen, Daniel Hibbard, Brent Tye, Steve Bargo, Gabriel Merida, Jude Merida, Tanner Broughton and Dylan Merida.

Those serving as Honorary Pallbearers will be: Dr. Firas Badin and Staff of the Oncology Office; Dr. William Thomas Ashburn and Staff; ARCH Coal Company and Employees; and Alva Patterson and Employees.

The Merida family will receive friends at the Hopper Funeral Home on Monday, June 19, 2017 after 6:00 P.M., and on Tuesday, June 20, 2017 after 9:00 A.M. and until the funeral hour.

Hopper Funeral Home will be in charge of arrangements.