Austin Michael Meritt

Funeral service for Austin Meritt will be at 11 a.m. on Saturday, March 7, 2026 at New Life Church with Pastor CJ Ward officiating.

Austin Michael Meritt, a radiant soul who touched the hearts of so many, passed away on February 22, 2026, in his hometown of Gillette, Wyoming. Born on August 20, 2011, Austin grew into a vibrant young man full of dreams, laughter, and a deep love for life that resonated with everyone he met.

As a freshman at Campbell County High School, Austin was an enthusiastic learner and a cherished member of the high school choir. Through choir, music was one of the many ways he shared his heart with the world. His captivating voice and joyful energy brought light to every choir performance, leaving a lasting impression on his friends and teachers alike. He was the friend who stood up when no one else would—the one who defended others, offered a helping hand, and made people feel safe and seen. His loyalty and compassion made him deeply loved.

Austin found joy in life’s simple pleasures, especially when he was surrounded by the people he loved most. He loved his parents fiercely, and his bond with his mom was especially close—she was his best friend. A proud momma’s boy, he told her everything and brought her along in all of life’s adventures, big and small. The love between them was constant, steady, and full of laughter.

He shared a special connection with his beloved sisters, Helen, Amy, Roxy, and Adelynn. Whether spending hours playing Fortnite, laughing over inside jokes, or simply being together, those moments were filled with warmth and joy. The sound of their laughter and the strength of their bond will echo in their hearts forever.

Austin had a big imagination and a love for comic books, movies, and Fortnite. He was always ready for an adventure. He had a special place in his heart for animals and spent time volunteering at the local animal shelter. His compassion for creatures of all sizes reflected the kindness that defined him.

Austin is survived by his loving family: his mother, Ashley Gisi; father, Brandon Meritt; stepmother, Jessyca Meritt; stepfather, Joe (Vanessa) Gisi; his beautiful sisters, Helen, Amy, Roxy, and Adelynn; Great-Grandma Ellis of Arizona; grandparents John (Annette) of Custer, South Dakota; Karla (Jessie) of Gillette, Wyoming; Dan and Shirley of Arizona; David and Laurie of California; John and Cindy of Arizona; Great-Grandma Carol of Utah; uncles and aunts Tim (Maria) of Arizona, Savannah of Arizona, Preston of Arizona, Todd and Jessica of Arizona, Chad (Nicolette) of California, Danny (Melissa) of Utah; and many cherished cousins.

Each of them will forever hold tight to the memories they created together—the laughter, the hugs, the conversations, and the everyday moments that meant the most. He was welcomed into heaven by those who went before him: Great-Grandfather Tony Williams; Grandfather Tony Ray Williams; Uncle Dustin Williams; Great-Grandfather Gerald Meritt; Great-Grandmother Charlie Meritt; Great-Grandfather Charles Wilckens; Uncle Chuck Wilckens; and Great-Grandmother Helen Wilckens. Though they have departed, their love remains intertwined with Austin’s, forever connected.

Austin Michael Meritt’s life was overflowing with love, light, and joy. His family loved him beyond measure, and he loved them just as deeply in return. While his absence leaves an unimaginable void, his spirit, kindness, and the love he so freely gave will continue to shine in the hearts of all who knew him.

A fond memory Austin's mom wanted to share that captures his spirit.

"One time he went to youth group because his choir teacher invited him. When he got home, I asked how it went. He shrugged and said his teacher wasn’t even there. I asked what he did then. Without missing a beat, he said, ‘They had free tacos… so I stayed.’ That was him — easygoing, honest, and always ready for a good laugh."