Judi Merriam

In Memory

Jenson E. Merriam
Jenson Merriam, 18, took his own life on Friday, December 23, 2011 at his home. He was born November 5, 1993, grew up in Schenectady, graduated from homeschooling through Schenectady L.E.A.H. and was enrolled in College Plus pursuing a BA in English with plans to attend graduate school for film and animation in two years. Jenson loved God, knew Jesus as his Savior, and was the kindest, sweetest, gentlest, most cheerful young man in our world. His sense of humor was amazing, and he gave us numerous hours of entertainment and laughter with his jokes, quick wit, and pranks. Jenson loved to write and produce films and animation. He was a gifted illustrator. Some of his favorite things to do were to read, write, draw, watch movies, work at his computer, build objects for his film making endeavors, listen to music, go to used bookstores, sit in his family’s cabin in the Adirondacks, collect Moon Goons, and spend time with his friends and family. No one could ask for a better friend than Jenson. He was the most encouraging, loving and sacrificial friend with whom anyone could be blessed. He cared for his family and friends to a fault, and would never think to hurt anyone. We cannot think of one person who ever spoke ill of Jenson. We know, he is now resting safely in the arms of Jesus.

Our Hearts Are Home Podcast – EPISODE 33 – DRAW NEAR, HOLD FAST, STAND FIRM

“On today’s podcast, Judi Merriam, an author, speaker, actor, and Jenson’s mom, shares her experience of loss and of the hope that she has found in Christ. With transparency and honesty, Judi discusses the difficult journey of loss; the wrestling with God, the searching for answers, and the discovery of the truth of God’s character and love. Her words bring great encouragement and hope to those who are grieving.”

‘Empty Shoes By The Door’ – Living After My Son’s Suicide with Judi Merriam – Everyone Has A Voice: Comeback Stories. Hope For A Better Tomorrow

“Through her own personal experience, Judi intimately captures the complexities of grief. The resilience of the human spirit, and the transformative power of healing. Her book not only honors those who have departed but also provides solace and understanding to the survivors, guiding them through the tumultuous seas of loss. 

Judi’s voice emerges as a beacon of hope and empathy for individuals and families who grapple with the aftermath of losing a loved one to suicide. Through Jenson’s story, Judi provides hope and healing.

“Suicide happens in good families.” – Judi Merriam”

Christy Neal

Empty Seat – Other People’s Shoes

“Losing a child is an unimaginable tragedy that leaves an indelible mark on a parent’s heart. The grief that follows is a heavy burden, one that seems impossible to bear. Each day becomes a struggle, filled with moments of overwhelming sadness and longing for the child who is no longer there. It’s like navigating through an endless maze of emotions, where even the smallest memories or reminders can trigger waves of pain. The loss is profound and profound, a wound that never fully heals, no matter how much time passes. Parents often find themselves grappling with feelings of guilt, questioning what they could have done differently, and grappling with the unfairness of it all. Moving forward feels like an insurmountable task, as the void left by their child’s absence looms large in their lives. It’s a journey fraught with setbacks and moments of despair, yet amidst the darkness, there remains a glimmer of hope that one day, they may find a way to carry on, honoring the memory of their beloved child while learning to live with the pain of their loss. My guest today is Judi Merriam. Judi today shares about the “empty seat” and the “empty shoes by the door”. Listen as we “take flight” with Judi Merriam.” – Neil Matthews

“‘Empty Shoes by the Door’: Local woman writes book about coping with grief following son’s suicide at age 18” – by Indiana Nash

“Interview with Schenectady Author Judi Merriam” with Doug Goudie

“In an honest and soul-searching memoir, Empty Shoes by the Door, Judi Merriam reflects with grace and courage on the fragile and amazing, terrifying and broken, glorious and painful experience of living life after an unfathomable loss.” – Irish American Heritage Museum

“Recently, I had the privilege of meeting local author Judi Merriam…” -Article written by Casey Mulligan Walsh

“Congrats to Mohawk River Valley author Judi Merriam on the publication of her memoir, Empty Shoes by the Door.” -Post written by the Adirondack Center for Writing

Voices of Experience: Living After My Son’s Suicide

Living After My Son’s Suicide – Guest Post by Judi Merriam

Grace with Judi Merriam
“Episode one hundred eighty-two of Above Ground Podcast this week deals with suicide and grief.”