FORT SMITH — Merrill Mankin

passed away Thursday, November 25, 2021, at the age of 68. He was born in Fort Smith, Ark., to Buell and Nina Mankin.

Merrill graduated from Northside High School before attending the College of the Ozarks. He then began a long and successful basketball coaching career that started in Foreman, Ark. He went on to coach at Santo, Texas, Midway ISD in Henrietta, Texas, Charleston High School, Fort Smith Southside, Van Buren High School, and Chaffin Junior High in Fort Smith. He won numerous conference titles, and two state championships in girls basketball while at Fort Smith Southside. After a brief retirement filled with fishing, he returned to assist with the program at Fort Smith Northside.

He was preceded in death by his father, Buell Mankin; and his brother, Marc Mankin. He is survived by his mother, Nina Mankin; brother, Mike Mankin ( Sissie); nephew, John Mankin (Jackie); niece, Jenny Cox (Jacob); and nephew, Joe Mankin (Kelley). In addition, he is survived by six great-nieces and nephews.

Public viewing will be Sunday, November 28, from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. and Monday, November 29 from 8 a.m.-7 p.m. at Edwards Funeral Home.

His memorial service will be held at First Baptist Church, Fort Smith at 11 a.m. Tuesday, November 30. Pallbearers are Ricky Smith, John Mason, Charles Cooper, John Mankin, Joe Mankin, and Jacob Cox. Private burial will be in Forest Park Cemetery under the direction of Edwards Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Northside High School or Southside High School girls basketball programs - Athletics and Activities, Building B, C/O Coach Mankin ( SHS/ NHS), 3205 Jenny Lind Rd, Fort Smith, Ark., 72901.

Online condolences may be sent to: www.edwardsfuneralhome.com.