Lewis Edward Merchant brought joy to the life of his parents L. T. and Ruby Mack Merchant on October 25, 1945, in Huntsville, Texas.

Lewis grew up and attended school in Huntsville. He graduated from Sam Houston High School. Following school, he joined the United States Army. His active duty began on October 5, 1967. He received an honorable discharge on September 14, 1969.

Lewis work history continued through the years at Brown Oil Tools and Hyberneck.

Lewis was preceded in death by his parents; sisters: Annie Lee Merchant, Ethel Bishop and Betty Ashley; brothers: Johnnie Lee Merchant, James Merchant and Jerrell Merchant; stepbrother: James Giddens and nephew: Byron Coutee.

Lewis leaves behind his children: Jimmy Merchant and Diana Merchant; sisters: Roxie Wynne (Milton), Doris Merchant (Paul), Donna Merchant and Earline Coutee (Billy); stepsisters: Mazola Duron (Oliver) and Thelma Giddens (Charles); stepbrother: Kenneth Giddens; devoted nephew: Brenton Ashley and Joshua Pool; sister-in-law: Linda Pool, and a host of additional relatives and friends.