GENERAL HOSPITAL’s Sonya Eddy Mourns the Death of Her Dear Friend

Please join us in sending love to GENERAL HOSPITAL’s Sonya Eddy (Epiphany), who is mourning the death of her dear friend, Valsin Merricks. “Grief,” she wrote in a heartfelt Instagram post. “What a short word to describe an emotion that is so encompassing. As long as we are breathing, there will be tones of grief that we will experience. Sometimes it’s lingering, and other times it’s quick and sudden, taking breath away.

“One of my dearest friends has moved through the veil,” Eddy continued. “For me, it was unexpected. The last time I spoke with him, I didn’t even consider that it was the last time. For this man was full of life, light, and love. Yet, I still made sure to tell him that I loved him. That he was gonna beat this. Unfortunately, I was incorrect. COVID-19 took my friend’s life. It was decidedly quick. That’s the thing with this virus. It happens so fast, in a moment, it steals you away.”

In her grief, Eddy also looked back on the many wonderful years she was able to have with her friend. “Valsin, I have only gratitude in my heart that I had the blessing of you in my life for 10 years,” she said. “That I got to share some of the ‘Best days of my life!’ with you is a gift that I will forever cherish. I will always miss you: your laugh, smile, even the way you sometimes irritated the living daylights out of me. No matter what the situation, I’m always so thankful that we always, always left each other with ‘I love ya…’

“My heart is broken, my spirit is troubled,” the actress admitted. “But through your ever-present enthusiasm, I’ll find my way back to ‘normal.’ So now, enjoy your well-earned rest, Boo Bear. Know that all your works will be remembered and celebrated. All of us who loved you are lucky. You taught us how to ‘Enjoy the best day of our lives!’ That blessing phrase will stay in our spirits as long as we walk. Thank you for your continuous joy and unbridled enthusiasm.

“People, please take care of each other,” Eddy concluded. “Always say ‘I love you,’ even when you find it difficult in the moment. My condolences to the Merricks family and friends. For in a twinkling of an eye…”

Our thoughts are with Eddy and all of Merricks’ loved ones during this difficult time.