Donald Merchant, a longtime Greenwich resident, passed away on July 28, 2026. He was 84. Born June 6, 1942 in Greenwich hospital to Edmund & Mary Merchant. 
A graduate of St. Mary’s high school where he held the breaststroke record for decades. Donald joined the Air Force where his exemplary typing skills acquired at the Westchester School of Business kept him indoors and warm while serving in Goose Bay, Labrador.
Upon his return home Donald worked for Fairfield home oil until he joined the Greenwich Police Department in 1969. Through hard work, determination and, never taking no for an answer, Don worked his way up to the rank of Administrative Captain before retiring in 1999. He was a graduate of the 173rd FBI session as well as several seminars and classes in law enforcement.
After his retirement, the “Oilman” as he was affectionately known returned to the oil business working for Northfield Fuel and then for Get About in New Cannan when he moved to Stamford.
Of all the titles he held in his career the one he cherished the most was the one of “Poppy” to his three beloved grandchildren. When not doting on his grandchildren, Donald enjoyed watching his beloved New York Yankees and spending time with his family and friends at Island Beach or one of his favorite watering holes. Donald was also a lifetime member of Orinoco Council #39 of The Knights of Columbus and a former commander of The Byram Veterans Association.
Donald is survived by his children, Kathryn Merchant and Thomas Merchant (Monique) of Lyman, SC, his loving companion, Anna Abbott, and his three favorite people in the world, his grandchildren, Emma, Mabel and Calder. He was also the brother of Edmund Merchant (Ginny) and the late Robert Merchant (Barbara).
To honor Donald’s life, family and friends will gather on Sunday 2:00pm to 6:00pm at Coxe & Graziano Funeral Home, 134 Hamilton Ave Greenwich, 203-869-5968. Funeral Mass Monday 10:00am at St. Catherine of Siena followed by interment at St. Mary’s Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be sent to Abilis of Greenwich,