Kolt Merrick, a track & field athlete of Oklahoma Panhandle State University, passed away unexpectedly on October 11, 2025.
He was a Sayre alumnus who had broken the school record with his 4×100 relay team.
Kolt Merrick first made a name for himself as a superstar in track & field at Sayre Public Schools.
During his racing career, he was a record-breaking machine who left his mark in the record books with his incredible speed.
Similarly, he had another passion for football and decided to try his talents on the gridiron.
He committed to continue his athletic career by playing college football and competing in track & field for the Oklahoma State Panhandle University.
The Sayre Schools family want to express out heartfelt condolences to Kyle, Jen, and the entire Merrick family on the loss of their son, Kolt. We wish them comfort, strength, and peace in the days ahead. At this time, services are pending.
Sayre Public Schools
Kolt Merrick’s Family Mourns the Tragic Loss
The Sayre Public Schools announced the tragic news of Kolt Merrick’s passing on October 12, 2025. He was the son of Kyle Merrick and Jennifer McLean, born in Sayre, Oklahoma.
He was a vibrant young man with a bright future, and his life was filled with laughter, love, and remarkable athletic achievement.
Kolt was a proud son who carried on a proud family legacy of athletic excellence, following in the footsteps of his father, Kyle, and his grandfather, Joe Merrick.
His father and grandfather loved playing football and competing in track & field.
When I saw that little boy in his first Sayre Eagle uniform wearing #22 like his dad and his dad’s dad. This big boy is exactly what I pictured. We love you big Kolt Wyatt. On the field and off you make us proud. You’ve grown into a great man. Even if all I can see is that toe headed little boy with the big blue eyes and the sweet smile❤️. Enjoy your final game at Sayre Eagle Stadium!
Kari Payne
Kolt was a dedicated athlete for Oklahoma Panhandle State University and represented the grit, determination, and spirit of a faithful Aggie.
His athletic prowess was evident to all who knew him, but his true gift was his ability to bring joy to those around him. He had a natural talent for being funny and was always ready with a joke to lift the spirits of those around him.
His infectious laughter and lighthearted nature created lasting memories for his family, friends, and teammates.
Prayers for the Merrick family 🙏 Brody loved working with Kolt, he said he was always cracking jokes and being funny.
Carlessa DeBruin
Kolt’s roots were firmly planted in Sayre, a community his family has long called home.
His grandfather, Joe Merrick, and grandmother, Sherry Merrick, have been a cornerstone of the family since their marriage on August 3, 1976.
The most recent and joyous chapter of Kolt’s life began on June 29, 2025, when he asked the love of his life, Aubree Hollowell, to be his wife. Their engagement was a future full of promise and shared dreams.
Kolt Merrick leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and strength. His heartbroken parents, loving grandparents, beloved fiancée, and a wide circle of family, friends, and teammates survive him.
Please keep Jennifer (McLean) and Kyle Merrick in your prayers. They lost their son Kolt last night.
Sayre High School Class of 1995
A life that burns twice as bright often burns half as long, and Kolt’s brilliant light will be deeply missed by all who were fortunate enough to know him.
The family will announce a memorial service to celebrate Kolt’s life at a later date.
Rest in Peace, Kolt Merrick.
In Case You Didn’t Know
- Aubree Hollowell is originally from Fort Cobb, Oklahoma, and lives in Sayre, Oklahoma.
- She studied Biology at Bemidji State University and works at Axiota Animal Health.
