Anthony L. Merritt

Anthony L. (Tony) Merritt was born September 15, 1937 in New Haven, CT and passed away unexpectedly on January 15, 2013 in Gold Canyon, AZ. Tony and his wife Ann have resided in Arizona for the past 18 years. Tony was the oldest of eight children. As a young child, two special people were inspirational in his life. First was his grandmother, Grace Brown who provided exceptional love and guidance. The second person was a local grocer in his neighborhood named Mr. Petrano who was instrumental in the development of his work ethic. Tony graduated from Hillhouse High School, where he played football and ran track. He started college at Northeastern University in Boston, MA then headed west to attend Dodge City, Kansas Junior College, where he played football and earned his Associate of Art’s degree. Tony then moved to Salt Lake City, UT to attend Westminster College where he met his wife Ann of 48 years. During this time Tony was drafted and spent two years in the US Army during the Berlin Crisis. Upon his discharge Tony returned to complete his education and received a Bachelor’s degree in Secondary Education with a major in Physical Education and Biology. Graduating in 1964, he became the first African-American teacher in Salt Lake City at Northwest Jr. High. While teaching, he completed his Master's Degree in 1966 at the University of Utah in Educational Administration. Tony then pursued a career in the automotive industry; first with Ford Motor Company for 13 years and then with Toyota Motor Sales, USA for 15 years where he held numerous positions, traveled the world, and relocated often with his family. Tony left Toyota to enter the retail side of the business with his wife Ann. In 1996 they opened Superstition Springs Toyota in Mesa, AZ (which was subsequently sold) and in 2004 they opened Superstition Springs Lexus. Tony was involved in the local community and supported various charitable organizations including Best Buddies Arizona, Save the Family Foundation of AZ, United Food Bank, Sunshine Acres Children’s Home and the Lexus Champions for Charity. Tony loved all sports, especially golf and physical fitness, and was an avid fan of the LA Lakers and the Denver Broncos. Tony is survived by his wife Ann, son Eric, daughter Heather and two Granddaughters and a Great-granddaughter. A celebration of Tony’s life will be announced at a later date. In lieu of flowers, you may make a donation to: Southern Poverty Law Center, 400 Washington Ave. Montgomery, AL 36104 or Westminster College, 1840 South 1300 East, Salt Lake City Utah, 84105. A "Celebration of Life - Open House" at the Superstition Springs Lexus. The address is 6206 East Test Drive Mesa, AZ . The celebration will be held on Thursday February 21, 2013 from 11:00 A.M. to 3:00 P.M.