James D. Merchant, Sr., 79, of Sharon, passed away Wednesday evening, January 4, 2023, in Cleveland Clinic, Main Campus.

Mr. Merchant was born on January 30, 1943, in Sharon, a son of the late Leslie and Elsie (Scott) Merchant. A lifelong area resident, he was a 1962 graduate of Sharon High School.

"Jim" began his career as a driver at the former Carl's Candies and later worked at the former Runaway Cycles, both in Hermitage. He ultimately retired after a long career at Young's Vending, Hermitage.

Jim was a lifelong member of the Salvation Army, Sharon Worship Center, where he served as a Sunday School statistician and coordinated and played in the basketball league.

An avid outdoorsman, he loved hunting and fishing. He also enjoyed bowling and participated in many leagues throughout his lifetime. Above all, James was a wonderful husband, father and grandfather.

He is survived by his wife of 59 years, the former Gloria Rouns, whom he married on July 6, 1963; a daughter, Jean (Rich) Sinkus, Hermitage; four sons, James (Brenda) Merchant, Jr., Huntsville, AL, Jeffrey (Mary Alice) Merchant, Sharon, Joseph (Pam) Merchant, Lincoln, NE, and George (Sarah) Merchant, Sharon; 23 grandchildren; and 25 great-grandchildren. Also, surviving are three sisters, Betty Marosy, Shirley Keasey and Bonnie Ayers, all of Sharon; four brothers, Lawrence Merchant, Sharon, William (Linda) Merchant, Leslie (June) Merchant, all of Hermitage, Ralph (Mary Ann) Merchant, Transfer; and his four-legged companion, Star.

In addition to his parents, Jim was preceded in death by a sister, Catherine Carter; and a brother, Raymond Merchant.

The family suggests memorial contributions be directed to the Salvation Army, 660 Fisher Hill St., Sharon, PA 16146.

Calling hours will be 10 a.m. until noon Monday (01/09/2023) in The Salvation Army, Sharon Worship Center.

Funeral service will be at noon, Monday, in the Worship Center.