Mr. Raymond Lester Merchant, age 77 of Vernon, AL, passed away Friday, November 27, 2020, at Anderson Regional Medical Center in Meridian, MS.

Mr. Merchant was born on September 23, 1943, in Sulligent, AL, to the late Grady Merchant and Evie Elliott Merchant.  He was a retired railroad detective and was a Shriner.  In addition to his parents, Mr. Merchant was also preceded in death by two brothers, Guy Merchant and Bobby Merchant, and two sisters, JoRee Williams and Dot Gaumer.

Funeral services will be Monday at 2:00 in the chapel of Chandler Funeral Home with Bro. Gary Seay officiating.  Burial will follow at Wofford Cemetery.  Visitation will be Monday 1:00-2:00 prior to the service.

Mr. Merchant leaves behind his wife, Judy Langley Merchant of Vernon, AL; three sons, Rick Merchant of Riverton, IL, Ray (Ami) Merchant, Jr. of Springfield, IL, and Ron (Lisa) Demato of San Tan Valley, AZ; one daughter, Brandy (Jason) Arias of Columbiana, AL; one stepdaughter, Carol Weathers of Vernon, AL; one step-son, Neal Atkins of Cozumel, MX; one sister, Sue Morris of Guin, AL; and a host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.