March 6, 2025, Goldsboro — Daniel Lafayette “Danny” Merritt, 69, passed away on Thursday, March 6, 2025 at Kitty Askins Hospice Center. Born in Wayne County on July 2, 1955, he was the son of the late Marion and Margaret Ruth Wilson Merritt.

Danny is survived by his brother, Ronald Wayne Merritt of Charlotte and Jerry Ralph Campbell (Felecia) of Holden Beach; niece, Anna Merritt Osburn (Charles Joseph); nephews, Christopher Merritt, Erick Merritt, and Garnet Johnson and their families.

Danny was a lifelong resident of Wayne County, dedicating his life to shaping young athletes and fostering a love for sports in his community.

Danny’s passion for athletics was evident throughout his decades-long career. He served as Athletic Director for the Wayne County Boys and Girls Club from 1976 to 1979, where he coached Little League and a Babe Ruth baseball team. His influence extended across multiple schools in Wayne County, including Goldsboro High School, Eastern Wayne High School, Rosewood High School, and Southern Wayne High School, where he coached football. He also led baseball teams at Goldsboro High School and Dillard Middle School and was an assistant softball coach at Southern Wayne High School.

Throughout his career, Danny’s leadership and dedication earned him numerous Coach of the Year awards, along with county and conference championships. However, his greatest legacy is the countless lives he touched—mentoring, encouraging, and inspiring generations of young athletes both on and off the field.

Most recently, Danny worked with the Goldsboro Parks and Recreation Department at the Bryan Multi-Sports Complex, continuing his commitment to the local sports community. His presence, wisdom, and unwavering support for youth athletics will be deeply missed.

Danny’s impact will live on in the hearts of those he coached, the colleagues who admired him, and the many friends and family who loved him. His passion for sports, his dedication to young athletes, and his kind and generous spirit will be remembered for years to come.

A service to celebrate Danny’s life will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, March 15, 2025, in the chapel of Seymour Funeral Home. The family will greet friends following the service at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorials be given in Danny’s memory to the Boys and Girls Club, Goldsboro Parks and Recreation, or Goldsboro High School Athletic Department for a scholarship in Danny’s name.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Seymour Funeral Home and Cremation Service.