Lanse Andrew Merrill, affectionately known to many as “Beanie,” was born on March 25, 1974, at Cooper Medical Center in Camden, New Jersey, to Fredericka Theresa Merrill and Paul Fisher. Lanse was a proud son of Camden, New Jersey, a city that shaped his heart and deepened his commitment to the community. He attended St. Stephens, Sacred Heart and Camden High Schools from where he graduated in 1993. Lanse loved sports, especially basketball and football. He excelled in basketball and caught the eye of a Woodrow Wilson High School coach who tried to convince Lanse to join their team; however, the offer was respectfully declined by the family.

After the passing of his mother, Lanse was cared for by his maternal grandparents Salome and George Drummond. Their unwavering love, support and commitment taught Beanie how to be both loving and protective. Ira Bradley, whom Fredericka married in 1979, continued to play an instrumental role in Beanie’s life, providing steadfast guidance and love that helped shape the man he became for his children, family and friends.

As a proud graduate of Camden High School, Lanse carried out his school spirit throughout his life, never forgetting the school’s mission statement. His fervent love for Camden City and Camden High was undeniable, whether he was on the sidelines mentoring young athletes, offering words of wisdom to students, or simply representing his city with pride. To know Lanse was to understand his passion for encouraging others, especially the youth of Camden. His dedication extended far beyond the football field, where he mentored not only with positive words but through consistent actions and care.

He was employed by the Board of Education for approximately 17 years, serving as Security for Camden High School. He consistently protected staff and students, as well as serving as a protector of his biological children, family, friends and the city. His protection of others extended beyond Camden City. He provided professional security services to professional wrestlers and NFL players. He was stern yet a “Loving Giant”. He was a self-taught Chef, loved to juice and work out in the gym.

He loved his children deeply and was present in every way that mattered. His role as a father and protector of his six children was one that he cherished the most: always guiding, teaching, and unconditionally loving them.

Lanse’s life was marked by strength, loyalty, and love. His loved ones will never forget his quiet demeanor and the powerful hugs. The family will forever cherish our special time with him. Lanse’s protective nature, his commitment to family and community will be deeply missed by all who knew him. To Camden, he was more than a man; he was a symbol of resilience and unity. He exemplified the best of what the city had to offer. He truly represented his high school colors, purple and gold with pride and admiration. He was the son of Camden and a mentor to many. He touched countless lives.

At the age of 51, our beloved “Beanie” passed away. He will be missed but never forgotten. Lanse was preceded in death by his beloved mother, Fredericka Theresa Merrill-Bradley; his father, Paul Andrew Fisher; Maternal grandparents, Salome and George Drummond; Paternal grandparents, Charles E. Loper Sr. and Sandra Fisher Walker; Uncles, Augustus L. Merrill and Charles E. Loper Jr.

His legacy will continue to live on through his children, Terryse Roberts, Dominique Blake, Santana Vega, Lanse Merrill, Andrew Merrill and Jeremias Merrill; Four grandchildren, Serenity Nock, Harmoni Quainter, Sincere Roberts and Essence Roberts; Beloved sisters, Tiffany (Sam) Bradley- Cook, Nikkia Fisher; Brothers, Paul Andrew Fisher Jr., Robert James Fisher and Jimmie Stewart; Nephews, Terry and Timere Bradley- Cook; Uncles, Lanse (Joyce) Merrill, Rev. Darrin (Lisa) Holland; Aunts, Gina Lipscomb, Rev. Charlene (Deacon Steven) Womack, Robin Williams, Jenie Holland, Sylvia Loper, Paula Fisher, Joy Thornton and Holly Walker; the Jones Family and a host of cousins, family, friends, Camden High School community and the Invincible City of Camden New Jersey.

LOVINGLY SUBMITTED,

The Family