In Loving Memory of

Coquita Michelle Macklin Merritt

June 8, 1957 – January 3, 2026

Coquita Michelle Macklin Merritt, a beloved mother, grandmother, woman of faith, and pillar of compassion, passed away peacefully on January 3, 2026, in Fort Myers, Florida, surrounded by her children and family. She was 68 years old.

Born on June 8, 1957, in Beacon, New York, Coquita was the cherished daughter of the late Kathleen Macklin and Bob Macklin. She was raised in Beacon and proudly graduated from Beacon High School at the age of 18, laying the foundation for a life marked by discipline, service, and unwavering integrity.

Coquita dedicated over 30 years of her professional life to the New York State Department of Corrections, serving at both the Downstate and Fishkill Correctional Facilities in the Hudson Valley. During her career, she resided in Fishkill, New York, where she became known as a woman of strength, fairness, and deep compassion. It was through her service with DOCS that she met the love of her life, Kenley Merritt. Together, they shared 25 years of marriage built on partnership, respect, and devotion. Kenley preceded her in death, and their bond remains an enduring testament to love and commitment.

In 2000, after a long and honorable career, Coquita retired and later relocated to Fort Myers, Florida, where she embraced a new chapter filled with faith, family, and service. She became a devoted member and served as a deaconess at Trinity Community Church of Naples, Florida, where her faith flourished and her spirit of service continued to shine.

Coquita was deeply passionate about caring for others. She lived her life as a servant to her family, her church, and her community. Her home was always open, her heart always welcoming. She had an extraordinary gift for listening, comforting, and encouraging—offering kind words that soothed the soul and wisdom that uplifted the spirit. She embodied selflessness in its truest form, leading by quiet example and unconditional love.

She leaves behind a legacy of love through her children: her sons, Lord Bishme Paulin and Samori Paulin, and her daughter, Binasia Bryant. Her siblings, Ernest Macklin, Stern Macklin, Michael Macklin. She was the proud and loving grandmother of nine grandchildren, each of whom brought her immeasurable joy. Many aunts uncles cousins nieces nephews and friends. Her life continues through them—in their values, their strength, and their capacity to love.

Though our hearts are heavy, we rejoice in knowing that Coquita’s life was one of purpose, faith, and deep love. Her memory will forever live on in the lives she touched, the family she nurtured, and the countless souls she uplifted.

Funeral Services & Visitation: Tuesday, January 13, 2026 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM Mount Zion Baptist Church 10 South Green Haven Rd. Stormville, NY 12582

“Well done, good and faithful servant.” — Matthew 25:23