John Merchant, the first African American member of the USGA Executive Committee, and a 2010 inductee into the National Black Golf Hall of Fame died March 5, 2020, at the age of 87.
Merchant, a prominent attorney, was born in Greenwich, Conn., where he practiced law for over 50 years. A pioneer in every sense of the word, Merchant’s professional, community and golf contributions are well-documented. They include his involvement in the early days of The First Tee program, organizing a series of symposiums for golfers of color from around the country, and advising golf entrepreneurs seeking to further the minority community’s interest in the game and business of golf.
Merchant was an early and ongoing supporter of Minority Golf Magazine. This writer will remember the many positive conversations we had on the future and direction of golfers of color in this country, as well as the evolving interest of people around the world.
His was a voice of leadership that will be sorely missed.
