Merritt Capron Fore, Jr. passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by his family, on January 4, 2025. Merritt went to be with his Lord and savior and reunited with his parents Merritt Capron “Pete” Fore and Katie Mae Pacetti Fore.
Born in Ocala, FL, on July 31, 1945, he is survived by Karen and Winston Needham, his sister and brother-in-law and by his wife of 54 years Nancy Jean Pratt Fore and their three children, Merritt Capron Fore III (his wife, Ryann Pauley Fore), Mac Pratt Fore (his wife, Jill Blankenship Fore), and Natalie Caroline Fore. Merritt had 6 grandchildren, Elise Kay Fore, 22, Ava Caroline Fore, 20, Halsey Kincaid Fore, 19, Brycen Pratt Fore, 17, Tallulah Jean Fore, 6, and Atticus Capron Fore, 5. He adored his grandkids, and his face would light up when they came to visit.
After graduating from Ocala High School in 1964, Merritt attended the University of Florida where he was a member of Sigma Alpha Epsilon Fraternity. Merritt graduated with a degree in Engineering in 1968 and finished Law School at UF in 1971. He served in the Army and was promoted to Captain in the Army Reserves. He worked as an Assistant State Attorney in Marion County before opening the Law Firm of Fore, Meffert, and Futch. In 1973, Merritt became a franchisee of Burger King.
Merritt was appointed to the Governing Board of the South West Florida Water Management District from 1989-1993. Merritt was a proud Bull Gator for over 40 years and he served on the Florida Gator Boosters Board of Directors . Merritt was a member of the Ocala Elks Lodge where he served as the Exalted Ruler from 1979-1980. Merritt was a member of the Florida Bar for 50 years. Merritt was a member of First Baptist Church of Ocala. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, golf and traveling with his family and friends. He will be greatly missed by all who loved him.
There will be a celebration of life for Merritt at the First Baptist Church of Ocala on January 13, at 2 p.m. A reception will be held immediately following the service and all who knew him are welcome to attend.
Donations in lieu of flowers can be made to Hospice of Marion County, Interfaith of Marion County or Florida Elks – Harry-Anna Trust Fund. Arrangements by Roberts of Ocala 352-537-8111.