Sunday, August 28, 2016
Billy will always be our "Inner Willy." That was the name of one of the top dramatic plays at our Winter Park High School [FL] circa 1953, in which Bill was cast as the elf-like embodiment of one's somewhat annoying conscience---dressed in a rather embarrassing white long-john underwear. He was so perfectly cast, for he seems to remain in our conscience even today.
Of course, we all knew Billy was brilliant and would end up in some intellectual profession. We'd occasionally kid him by using his full title "William Merritt." He was a delight to be around, ready to discuss any issue and with impish grin that would really made you think.
Yes, William Merritt was special and his career certainly underscored that fact. I actually used some of Bill's popular personality profile instruments myself for years at my university, without realizing until he later told me, they were of his creation
Bill really had an impact on our WPHS Class of 1953, the whole field of management and personality assessment, and many others--friends and family. His son Kevin and his brother Ed could not have been more helpful in allowing us to talk with Bill while he was still able.
Bill really made a significant mark on this world and he will be profoundly missed.
Edgar B. Wycoff
on behalf of Winter Park High School, Class of 1953
