William Curtis Merchant

William Curtis Merchant was born on May 7, 1937 in Akron, Ohio and entered the presence of Jesus on May 20, 2023 following a short illness. He loved and was incredibly proud of his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. June was the love of his life and they shared a Christ-centered marriage for more than 65 years.

Bill graduated from Garfield High School in 1954 and the University of Akron in 1958 with a bachelor's degree in education. He taught several years at Bolich Junior High School. Bill and June owned Cornerstone Book & Supply where they ministered to people for 34 years.

Bill was a member of Suffield Fellowship Church for more than 50 years serving as an elder, teacher and on the worship team. The love he had for the Lord was evident every day of his life. He truly lived his faith and was a great example to those around him. He loved to share his gift of teaching and singing and sang in many quartets. He exemplified Mark 12:30, "Love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, mind and strength." His desire was for others to do the same.

He is survived by wife June; daughters, Vicki (Joe) Parisi, Kathy (Ed) Bostic, and son Bill (Christine) Merchant; Grandchildren Joseph (Micah) Montanari, Michael (Katrina) Parisi, Christopher Parisi, Katie Lynn Bostic, Stephanie Merchant (Zach Farelli), Nathan Merchant, Julia Merchant and Samuel Merchant; Great grandchildren Sophie June Montanari and Jace Xander Montanari; brother Kenneth (Joanne) Merchant; many loved nieces and nephews.

Preceded in death by his parents Ira Paul and Virginia Rebecca Merchant; his father and mother-in-law John and Mary Packo; brother Donald (Kay) Merchant; and brothers-in-law and sisters in-law John (Elaine) Packo, Mary Snyder, Ann Green, Norma Packo, Betty (Gary) Matson and William Packo.

"Then choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve… But as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord." Joshua 24:15

All are welcome to visit at Newcomer Funeral Home, 131 N. Canton Rd. Akron, OH 44305 on Wednesday, May 24th from 4:00 until 8:00 p.m., and again at Suffield Fellowship Church, 1669 Waterloo Rd. Mogadore, OH 44260 on Thursday, May 25th from 9:30 a.m. until the funeral service begins at 10:30 a.m., with Pastor Jim Shuman officiating. A graveside service will immediately follow at Hillside Memorial Park, Akron, where William will be laid to rest. To leave a message for William's family, please scroll below.