Clyde Merritt Draper Jr.

Published 6:33 pm Monday, January 20, 2025

Clyde Merritt Draper, Jr., 65, passed away peacefully on January 18, 2025. Merritt was born in Suffolk, Virginia to Clyde Merritt Draper, Sr. and the late Jean Hurley Draper. Merritt was preceded in death by his daughter, Susan Janette Draper.

Merritt was a 1977 graduate of Forest Glen High School, and obtained both his undergraduate degree and MBA from Virginia Tech University. He retired from Anthem as a Senior Program Manager after 31 years of service. Merritt absolutely adored his (2) beautiful daughters, Savannah and Susan. His favorite things included Virginia Tech football, golfing, talking politics, Disney World with his girls, The Grateful Dead and any live music, the beach, reading, and working brain teaser puzzles.

Merritt is survived by his daughter Savannah Draper; sisters Susan L. Draper, Sandy Young, Janet Sutter (Andy) and Joyce Downs; Caleb Joines (Jaylene) and Jacob Joines; niece, Taylor Young; nephews Zach Sutter (Blair), Cody Young, Dillon Draper (Kilee), Josh Sutter (Stephanie), and Jackson Downs; several cousins and extended family; and dear friend Susan Umbehant.

The family would like to extend heartfelt thanks to the staff of Trinity Hospice and Commonwealth Senior Living at Georgian Manor in Chesapeake for the loving and respectful care provided to Merritt.

A memorial service will be held Friday, January 24, 2025 at 1 PM at R. W. Baker & Co. Funeral Home, Downtown Suffolk Chapel. Visitation will be held immediately following the service until 3 PM. To honor Merritt’s love of animals, donations can be made to the Suffolk Humane Society, 412 Kings Fork Road, Suffolk, VA 23434 in lieu of flowers.