Leslie Keith “Merk” Ammons Jr.

“Merk” was born Leslie Keith Ammons Jr. on Sept 8, 1968, to Leslie Keith Ammons Sr. and Madeline George Ammons in Richmond, CA., he was the second born son to this union.

“Merk” received his nickname at an early age and it followed him through adulthood, it was actually the name of a character in a cartoon he and his brothers would watch as kids.

Growing up “Merk” is remembered by his family as a sweet baby, mischievous as most toddlers, but nothing his parents, aunts and uncles couldn’t handle.

“Merk” received his education through the Richmond School District attending; Cortez Elementary, Portola Middle School and Harry Ellis High school.

“Merk” was blessed with two amazing children whom he adored his 1st born Tanea Ammons and son Keymari Ammons, he took pride in being a father and spent as much time as he could guiding and nurturing them. There was nothing he wouldn’t do for his children, his daughter Tanea even refers to him as her “Best friend”.

“Merk” enjoyed playing dominoes (W/Brother Shabazz), bird watching, 49ers’s games, and hitting the casino. He also looked forward to family events this is where he was able to spend time with the people most important to him. He was able to sit, talk and laugh with everyone. He had a special place in his heart for each and every family member and had a nickname for each of them as well, just know if “Merk” called you something besides your given name you were special.

“Merk” was a humble man and even though his life was faced with many adversities he remained that way. There weren’t many times you didn’t see “Merk” smiling, his face said a lot but, his smile said more it was contagious and endearing. He did not hesitate to tell his family he loved them at any given moment. “Merk” had a special relationship with his siblings, especially his brothers they had a special bond that was unbreakable. Memories that come to mind are Rahsan, Turhan, Merk and Markel all cracking jokes at their mother’s home on 4th Street in Richmond, no one was safe, you had to have thick skin to be around them and you could still feel the love they shared for one another. Although “Merk” is no longer with us his contagious smile and endearing love will continue to live in all of us.

“Merk” was proceeded in death by; his father Leslie Keith Ammons Sr., Mother Madeline George Ammons, Brother Robert Ammons, Grandmothers Eva Ammons & Alvie George, Grandfathers Floyd Ammons & Frank George Sr., Uncle Frank George Jr. and Nephew Marshay Ammons.

“Merk’s” legacy and humble personality will continue in his Daughter; Tenea Ammons, Son; Keymari Ammons, Brothers; Shabazz, Rahsan, Turhan ,Markel & Keith Sisters; Akisha & Amber (Maurice) Aunts; Jackie, Florence, Bobbie, Beryl, Lee, Jeanette (Victor) & Genevia; Uncles; Dean(Artis) and Herschel(Naomi) and a host of Nieces, Nephews, Cousins and Extended Family and Friends.