Tift Regional Medical Center Honors Marguerite Merritt Posthumously

Tift Regional Medical Center (TRMC) honored the late Marguerite Merritt with The PHIL Award during a ceremony held recently in Tifton, Georgia. Merritt, who dedicated over 47 years of her life as a respiratory therapist at TRMC, passed away in August 2025. Her family and close friends accepted the award on her behalf, celebrating her remarkable contributions to the field.

The PHIL Award is a prestigious recognition program designed to acknowledge outstanding respiratory therapists who deliver exceptional care to patients suffering from respiratory illnesses. This honor is determined by nominations from patients, family members, and fellow caregivers. It aims to recognize the unsung heroes within the respiratory profession, emphasizing the importance of each breath taken by patients.

During the ceremony, several speakers highlighted Merritt’s dedication and unwavering commitment to her patients. Sandy Wells, the Respiratory Care Director at TRMC, along with Dr. Rubal Patel, a specialist in Pulmonary Medicine and Critical Care, shared heartfelt tributes. The event was attended by members of the hospital administration, including Chris Dorman, the President and CEO of Southwell, and Tonia Garrett, the Chief Nursing Officer.

Merritt was remembered as a clinician who exemplified selflessness and compassion. Described as skilled and always willing to assist her colleagues, she was known for prioritizing patient care above all else. In a press release, TRMC noted, “Marguerite was known for always putting patients first, exemplifying a life of serving others.”

This recognition serves as a poignant reminder of the profound impact healthcare professionals have on their patients’ lives. The legacy left by Merritt continues to inspire her colleagues and the community to uphold the values of care and compassion that she embodied throughout her career.