Julius Meriwether, Jr.

Julius Edward “Chuck” Meriwether Jr. (June 30, 1956 - October 26, 2019), was born in Nashville, Tennessee. He was the only child of the late Julius Edward Meriwether Sr. and Gloria Gaines Meriwether. A graduate of Father Ryan High School, Martin Methodist College, Athens State University, and Wendelstedt Umpire School. He was married to the late Curline Parker Meriwether, to this union two sons were born, Jeremy Edward, and Christopher Julius Meriwether.

Chuck was passionate about uplifting others. He served as a mentor to many, whether it be one of his son’s friends or a member of the community. He was a member of Fifteenth Avenue Baptist Church where he was on the board of Trustees. He was also a board member of the Davidson County Sports Authority and a diversity consultant for the Tennessee Bureau of Investigations. Chuck touched many lives no matter the level of interaction which is evident by the stories and memories shared. His presence will be greatly missed by all.

Chuck called his first big league game in 1987, was promoted to the full-time American League staff in 1993 and worked for 18 years. In 2011, Meriwether joined MLB’s Umpiring Department as a Supervisor, a capacity in which he worked with, evaluated and mentored the Major League Umpires for nine years.

Chuck had the plate in Game 4 when the Red Sox ended their 86-year title absence by beating St. Louis at Busch Stadium. He also did the 2007 World Series, in which Boston swept Colorado.

In addition, Meriwether got eight assignments in the Division Series, two in the League Championship Series and two All-Star Games.

"Chuck Meriwether was an accomplished umpire on the field, a role model for our staff and a true gentleman in life," Rob Manfred MLB Commissioner) said in a statement. "Chuck will be remembered for his genial manner and the outstanding example he set for others, particularly for African American umpires who followed him."


He leaves to cherish his memory, wife Rita West Meriwether, two sons, Jeremy (Melissa Shaver) and Christopher (Brittany Francescon). Two-step daughters Melanie and Monica Scruggs. Three grandchildren Isla, Eli, and Emmie Meriwether. Three step-grandchildren Jaiden, CeAirra, and Kaleb. Cousins/Sisters, Jacqueline Patton Greer and Monica Patton Virgo. God-daughters, Gabrielle Smith, and Cecelia Greer. Mother-in-law V. Lorene West, brother-in-law Reverend John P. West Jr. (Susan Hill) and sister-in-law Mary McMiller (Travis) He also leaves to cherish his memory a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, in-laws, and devoted family and friends.