Janie Sellers Merck, age 82, of Dahlonega, Georgia, formerly of Cleveland, Georgia, went home to be with her Lord and Savior on Monday, January 5, 2026, surrounded by the legacy of a life well lived and deeply loved.
Born on January 10, 1943, in Habersham County, Janie was the cherished daughter of the late Thomas Roosevelt Sellers and Lizzie Mae Owens Sellers. She was raised in the Mount Airy community, where she developed the strong faith, work ethic, and love of learning that would guide her throughout her life. A gifted student, she graduated with honors from South Habersham High School, Class of 1960.
Janie continued her education by earning a college degree in English, graduating with honors. Shortly thereafter, she married the love of her life, Johnny Hoyt Merck, beginning a devoted partnership marked by faith, mutual respect, and shared purpose. While living in Marietta, Georgia, Janie taught English and later completed a counseling degree with honors, answering her calling to serve others as a school counselor. Her compassion, wisdom, and steady encouragement left a lasting impact on countless students and families.
Janie and Johnny later made their home in Eatonton, Georgia, and eventually settled in Cleveland, Georgia, where together they owned and operated Merck Realty. Whether through her professional work, church involvement, or daily interactions, Janie was known for her kindness, intelligence, gentle spirit, and unwavering faith.
In her later years, Janie resided in assisted living, most recently at Dahlonega Assisted Living. She was lovingly supported by her brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Doug and Maudeen Merck, whose care and devotion were a blessing to her and her family.
In addition to her parents, Janie was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Johnny Hoyt Merck; and her siblings, Frank, Julia, Leon, Henry “Buddy”, and Willie.
She is survived by her sister, Carolyn Sanders; brothers, Joe Sellers (Teresa) and Jim Sellers (Cinda); along with several nieces, nephews, extended family members, and a host of dear friends who will forever cherish her memory.
Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Thursday, January 8, 2026, in the Chapel of McGahee-Griffin & McEntire Funeral Home, with Rev. Doug Merck and Rev. Richard Merck officiating. Interment will follow at Hazel Creek Baptist Church Cemetery, with Dr. Kenneth Franklin officiating at the graveside.
The family will receive friends from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. on Wednesday evening at the funeral home.
Janie’s life was a beautiful testimony of faith, love, service, and grace. Though she will be deeply missed, her family rejoices in knowing she is now at peace, reunited with loved ones, and resting in the presence of her Savior.
An online guest registry is available for the family here.
McGahee-Griffin & McEntire Funeral Home of Cornelia, Georgia (706/778-8668) is in charge of arrangements.
