A devout Christian, Elizabeth Jane Knotts Merriam (Liz) joined her Lord on Friday June 1st, 2012. Liz was born April 6th, 1954 in Elkins and lived her entire life in the community she loved. She graduated from Elkins High School in 1972 and attended Marshall University where she earned a Bachelor of Arts and Masters degree in Elementary and Early Childhood Education. She started her career in 1977 as a first grade teacher at North Elementary School. After taking time off to raise her family, she earned a Masters of Education in Reading and rejoined Randolph County Schools. She is remembered by the community for teaching sixth grade reading at Elkins Middle School, where she shared her passion for reading and touched the lives of many students and faculty. She retired from teaching in 2006 to concentrate on her health and family. Liz met her husband Craig Merriam when they both taught at North Elementary School and married on December 20, 1980. Together, they raised two sons, Ryan and Eric, to whom she devoted her life. Preceding her in death are her mother and father, Dr. Richard K. and Martha Martin Knotts, and her stepmother, Thelma Nestor Knotts. Surviving her are husband Craig, sons Ryan and Eric, and their wives Jessie, and Sarah. Also surviving is sister Ann Harris, husband Phil Harris, nephews Scott and Curtis, Scott’s wife Christina, their children Andrew and Kayla, and Stepmother Alice “Dutch” Conner Knotts. Liz was delighted to learn that Jessie and Ryan are expecting a son in September 2012. Liz will be remembered for her devotion and love for her family, church, and community. Liz was baptized, attended Sunday school, and married at the First United Methodist Church of Elkins. Please join us in celebrating her life by attending a memorial service and reception at the First United Methodist Church on Friday June 8, 2012, at 2:00 PM. All are welcome – A memory scrapbook will be available to place a special picture, note, or other keepsake if you choose. In honor of her love for teaching and the many challenges children face, donations to “The Backpack Program” of the First United Methodist Church – 315 Kerens Ave Elkins, WV 26241 would be greatly appreciated in lieu of flowers.
