William B. Merritt entered into eternal rest on September 26, 2016. He was born in Atlanta, Georgia and reared in New York City where his parents lived. He entered the New York City Fire Department on January 1, 1955. He was appointed to Ladder Company 111 in Brooklyn, N.Y., where he worked for 26 years; last nine years was as a Doctor's Driver and Aide for the Medical Division. During those 26 years, he was a member of Vulcan Society NYCFD, life member. In addition, Mr. Merritt worked at United Parcel Service and U.S. Postal Service during the holidays. He attended the St. John's University for two and one half years majoring in Federal Taxation and Accounting. He became a Tax Accountant and a real estate broker licensed in the State of N.Y.

Mr. Merritt joined the Sewanhaka Power Squadron teaching safe boating and eventually served as their Commander from 1992-1993. He became an enrolled Agent by passing the IRS government test, which was nine hours, in two days and was licensed to practice before the IRS Courts.

Mr. Merritt left New York in March 1994 and moved to Palm Coast, Florida. There he joined the Daytona Beach Power Squadron and spent two years as their Treasurer. He became a member of the African American Cultural Society and served on the Budget and Finance Committees for nine years. He was also a member of AACHO and a member of the Vulcan's Men Club which is a group of retirees from the Fire Service from various locations including Palm Coast. He continued to practice tax accounting while in this area. He was also a member of the Black Studies Group through AACS; and a life member of the International Association of Black Professional Fire Fighters; the NYCFD Central Florida Retirees, and the Gun Club of Flagler where he enjoyed trap' shooting.

Family left to cherish his memory includes his wife of 46 years, Kathleen Merritt, his children: son William Merritt, daughter Tamara Rollins, sons Bradley Merritt and Daryl Bailey, seven grandchildren, five great-grandchildren, many loving nieces and nephews and a host of other relatives and friends. He was predeceased by his brother Udin Rahman and his sister Jamelah Rahman.

Arrangements are under the careful direction of Lohman Funeral Home Palm Coast. Additional condolences and memories are welcome to be shared with the family via this online guestbook.