Daniel "Wayne" Merchant, Sr., age 80, of Vernon, AL, passed away on Thursday, August 28, 2025 in Columbus, MS.  Funeral services with military honors will be held on Sunday, August 31, 2025 at 2:00pm from the Otts Funeral Home Chapel with graveside services and burial to follow in Wofford Cemetery.  Bro. Paul Barham to officiate.  Visitation will be held at the funeral home prior to the funeral service from 1:00pm until 2:00pm.

Pallbearers: Guage Reeves, Kelvin Bryant, Tracey Daw, and Jason Rose

Wayne was born on December 3, 1944 in Lamar County, AL to the late Bradford Merchant and the late Ruby Gray O'Mary Merchant.  He was a graduate of Sulligent High School.  Wayne was a member of the American Legion and Vietnam Veterans Association.  He also was also very involved in the American Legion Riders Motorcycle Club and the Patriot Guard.  He loved being outdoors, especially riding motorcycles and fishing.  His family was his greatest joy and he loved spending time with them as much as could.  His kind heart and gentle spirit will always be fondly remembered and greatly missed.

Survived By:

Sons: Gabriel Merchant, Columbus, MS

Wayne Merchant, Jr.(Jennifer), Columbus, MS

Daughter: April Bareis, Dallas, TX

Sister: Patsy McGee, Millport, AL

Grandchildren: Olivia Merchant, Makayla Merchant,

Jashun Taylor, Ethan Merchant, Henry Bareis

Step Grandchild: David Wayne Bonner

Great Grandchild: Novah Clark

Preceded In Death By:

Parents: Bradford and Ruby Merchant

His Children's Mother: Patricia Fay "Pat" Merchant

Stepdaughter: Jamie Bonner

Step Grandchild: Ashley Bonner

Brothers: Sammy Merchant and David Merchant

Sisters: Lovie Ann Compton, Sue Stanford,

Tootsie Corbitt, and Tommy Lee Foster

Condolences and special memories may be shared with the family at: www.ottsfuneralhome.net

Otts Funeral Home

Sulligent, AL, Directing