Joe Harlow Merchant, 79, Carthage, Missouri, passed away Monday night, July 22, 2024, at his home. He was born September 28, 1944, in Caddo Mills, Texas, the son of the late Charles Blackstone Merchant and Alma Ruth (May) Merchant. Joe’s father, Charles, passed away when he was an infant. Ruth then married Ray Campbell who raised Joe. Joe’s journey through life was marked by dedication to his country, his community, and his loving family.
Joe graduated from Carthage High School in 1962, and then furthered his education at Pittsburg State University. His studies were interrupted when he was called to serve in the U.S. Navy, a duty he fulfilled with honor. Joe’s thirst for knowledge led him to continue his education at Missouri Southern State University upon completing his military service.
For 13 years, Joe applied his sharp mind to management at Oklahoma Tire and Supply Company before embarking on a 30-year career with Oklahoma Natural Gas. His dedication to his work was evident to all who knew him, and his professional legacy is one of unwavering commitment and exemplary service. Joe’s life was not solely defined by his professional endeavors; he was deeply involved in his community and various associations. As a service officer for the Disabled American Veterans (DAV) for a decade, Joe demonstrated his enduring commitment to fellow veterans. His leadership skills shone brightly as he chaired the U.S.S. La Salle Association Reunion, and his passion for mentorship was evident in his role with the ROTC at Carthage High School, where he proudly led the team to a state competition victory. He attended Miami First Assembly of God in Miami, Oklahoma. After 54 years of living in Miami, Oklahoma, he found his way back to his beloved hometown of Carthage, Missouri, in February of 2024.
An avid outdoorsman, Joe found solace and joy in fishing, hunting, and yardwork. His dexterity and creativity were on full display as he worked with his hands. These pastimes were not just hobbies; they were expressions of Joe’s love for the tangible and enduring, for crafting something lasting with his own two hands. He had a sincere love for the music of the 50s and 60s.
Joe is survived by his beloved wife of 31 years, Ruth Anne Merchant; his daughter, Annie Barr, Overland Park, Kansas; his step-daughter, Sara Ford (Greg), Mountain Home, Arkansas; his step-sons, Stephen Bruffett (Susan), Green Bay, Wisconsin, and Jamin Bruffett (Shelby), Harrison, Arkansas; his step-grandson, Cole Ford, Jenks, Oklahoma; his step-granddaughters Lindsey Ward and Natalie Ward, Harrison, Arkansas; his brothers, Bill Merchant (Della), Carthage, Missouri, Don Campbell (Lynn), Carthage, Missouri, and Robert Campbell (Gwen), Cleveland, Tennessee, along with numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and a host of extended family and friends.
Memorial services will be held 11 am, Thursday, August 1, 2024, at Mt. Moriah Methodist Church, Carthage, Missouri. Memorial gifts are suggested to the DAV, Miami, Oklahoma, in care of Knell Mortuary. Online condolences may be expressed through www.knellmortuary.com. Arrangements are under the direction and personal care of Knell Mortuary.
