B
ob Merrick, a prominent New Orleans entrepreneur and real estate businessman, passed away on April 28 at the age of 80 after a long battle with cancer. He is survived by his wife Sheryl and four daughters from previous marriages.

    Merrick's career spanned over five decades, during which he grew Latter & Blum into one of the largest brokerage firms in the Gulf South. Under his leadership, the company facilitated over $150 million in industrial real estate deals across Louisiana and expanded its operations through strategic acquisitions. In 2019, Merrick stepped down as CEO to become Chairman, with his daughter Lacey taking over the top spot.

    Latter & Blum's success was marked by a significant increase in sales volume, from approximately $350 million in 1986 to $3.6 billion in annual sales at the time of its sale to Compass in April 2024. The company had grown to employ 3,100 agents and ranked No. 59 on the RealTrends500 list.

    Merrick's entrepreneurial spirit began early in his career, with him forming his own real estate company, Robert W. Merrick, Inc., Realtors, in 1973. He went on to develop and acquire several notable properties, including Brookhollow Business Park and Airport Industrial Park. In 1986, he purchased Latter & Blum, which was founded in 1916.

    Throughout his career, Merrick received numerous awards and accolades for his business acumen and philanthropic efforts. He was honored as "Strategic Partner of the Year" by Mobil Oil Company's Mobil Worldwide Real Estate subsidiary in 1994 and received the Times-Picayune Loving Cup in 2019.

    Merrick's commitment to giving back to the community was evident through his significant donations to various nonprofits, including a $1 million gift to the United Way of Southeast Louisiana. He also served on several boards, including the University of New Orleans Business School Advisory Board and the American Red Cross.