Donald E. Merritt

Donald Merritt was born on September 28, 1932 in Greenwich, Connecticut to George and Isabelle Merritt. He was educated in the public schools. He served his country with distinction on the front lines of the Korean War. He was a recipient of the Purple Heart. Donald worked over thirty years for the US Postal Service. It was during his tenure with the postal service that he met his wife, Tanya, who also worked there. Donald enjoyed his large family. He particularly loved Tanya’s good cooking. He is remembered as an attentive and devoted father by his children and a good stepfather by his stepchildren. He was a man of few words who wouldn’t complain if he was hurting. Donald was calm, easygoing, never angry and not known to utter a cross word. He enjoyed all sports, especially the NY Giants and boxing. Donald passed away peacefully on December 26, 2024, at the age of 92, due to heart failure. He is survived by his beloved wife, Tanya Merritt; his ex-wife, Neater Mae Merritt, his children: Hershella Merritt of Bridgeport; Donald Merritt, Jr., Patricia Ann Merritt, Lorraine Isabelle Merritt, all of Stamford; Kenneth Merritt (Marjorie) of Bridgeport; his brother William Merritt (Ora) of Statesville, NC; 15 grandchildren, and 21 great-grandchildren, several nieces and nephews. He is also survived by his best friend, Vinnie Harrison. He was predeceased by both parents, brothers Wesley Merritt and Leonard Merritt, his sister, Olivia French, and his daughter, Arlene Olivia Merritt. Donald was also a loving stepfather to Gina Smith, Dorothy Saunders, Derek Saunders (deceased), and Sonya Saunders (deceased). In his last years, Donald was lovingly cared for by his step-granddaughter, Tracina Garner, and by his friend, Jackie Person, who were with him every step of the way until his final hours. Donald will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. Visitation will be held on Saturday, January 4th from 10am – 11am at Stamford Church of Christ, 1264 High Ridge, Stamford, CT, a funeral service will be held following visitation at the Church at 11am. If you wish to make an online remembrance for the family, you may sign the family guestbook at www.bosakfuneralhome.com or www.facebook.com/bosakfuneralhome.

Donald E. Merritt

September 28, 1932 - December 26, 2024