Bob Merrick, a prominent figure in Gulf South real estate, passed away at the age of 80 after a long battle with cancer. His legacy in New Orleans and the surrounding region is marked by both significant business achievements and a deep commitment to community.

A Visionary in Real Estate

Bob began his real estate career as a self-employed appraiser, focusing on the Mississippi River corridor. In 1973, he founded Robert W. Merrick, Inc., specializing in commercial and industrial real estate. His major advancement occurred in 1986 when he acquired Latter & Blum, transforming it into the largest full-service real estate firm in the Gulf South. Under his leadership, the company grew to include over 1,400 agents across 27 offices in Louisiana and Mississippi, offering residential, commercial, property management, insurance, mortgage, and title services.

Bob’s business interests were extensive. He played a key role in developing industrial real estate, notably through a 1990 partnership that revitalized Elmwood Business Park. His ventures, known as Merrick Partnerships, controlled approximately 10,000 acres of investment properties in the metro area, including apartments, shopping centers, and other commercial assets.

Influence in The Realty Alliance

Bob Merrick was also a respected member of The Realty Alliance, a network of leading real estate firms. His contributions and insights within this alliance further solidified his influence and reputation in the broader real estate industry. Eventually he would provide the support necessary for one of his daughters, Lacey Merrick Conway, to serve as chair of The Realty Alliance board of directors.

A Legacy of Giving

Beyond his business success, Bob was a dedicated philanthropist. He endowed the Robert W. Merrick/Latter & Blum, Inc./Realtors Endowed Chair in Real Estate at the University of New Orleans and served on the university’s board of trustees. His contributions extended to numerous organizations, including the American Red Cross, United Way, Junior Achievement, Habitat for Humanity, and others. He was among the top 25 individual contributors to the American Red Cross, recognized on their monument in Washington, D.C.

Bob also supported education for the families of his employees, granting 330 scholarships valued at nearly half a million dollars since 1991.

Remembering Bob

Bob’s office, decorated with hand-carved duck decoys and fishing photos, reflected his personal interests and professional life. He was a member of the Louisiana Wildfowl Carvers and Collectors Guild and enjoyed the outdoors, often visiting his farm in Poplarville, Mississippi, for hunting and fishing.

He is survived by his daughter, Lacey Merrick Conway, who is the CEO of Latter & Blum | Compass, and her three sisters as well as his ten grandchildren.

Bob Merrick’s life demonstrates visionary leadership, community dedication, and significant generosity. His impact will be felt for many years.